Writing in The Times, Gerald Davies says the time has come for the game to embrace a mid-season break.
"Whereas, of course, the 10 to 12-week off-season break in the summer is an important recuperative period, it should not be solely at the expense of other breaks. The timing of short breaks for players during the season, and the management of those individual players’ breaks to help the body and mind to rest, is a justifiable aim. During the Lions’ ten-match, seven-week tour last summer, the collaboration between Ian McGeechan, his coaching team and the medical staff ensured the right balance of on-field commitments for the players.
"This relationship was beneficial to everyone. Only two players appeared in six matches, all the others made appearances in five games or fewer. Time off was critical and it helped substantially. Nevertheless, there were serious injuries."
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