84 per cent of the online survey held by the French internet portal L’equipe agrees with World Rugby president Bernard Lapasset on establishing promotion-relegation format of the Six Nations.
“Perhaps, Italian captain Sergio Parisse will not be pleased but 84 per cent supports the idea of the Six Nations, 14 per cent is against and 2 per cent abstains from response. The Georgia national team wins Nations Cup several years in a row, is knocking on the door of the Six Nations and one fine day this door will open for sure. This year Italy lost all matches in the Six Nations and took the last place” – writes L’equipe.
Some famous phrases are quoted in the article: Sergio Parisse’s words which he stated after losing to Wales on March 20 – “I respect Georgia and Romania but we deserve playing in the Six Nations”; Georgian captain Mamuka Gorgodze’s response – “Let the match between the last-place team of the Six Nations and the winner of the Nations Cup take place”; and of course Lapasset’s words – “If it wants to look to the future, this competition should open up and embrace a promotion-relegation format. Either direct or via a play-off”.
The idea is raised and now it is up to Bill Beaumont of England who will replace Bernard Lapasset.
