Sunday Social: Emotions, culture and playing with an injury

Dylan Coetzee

It is time for Planet Rugby’s Sunday Social, your quirky recap of the serious and not so serious talking points from the past week’s action.

First up, an emotional send off for Capo Ortega, who devoted almost two decades to Castres. A legend in every sense of the word. Look at what it means to him!

Meanwhile, Super Rugby Pacific continues to grow as one of the most culturally inspired tournaments globally. Both the Fijian Drua and Highlanders perform war dances to commemorate the Drua’s first game at their home base in Suva.

Waratahs fly-half Tane Edmed breaks down after beating the Crusaders. Rugby is founded on passion, and it is excellent to see players show their passion for the game, its camaraderie and the battles on the field.

A bit warmer than Glasgow in April? Rob Harley jokes about having sun cream hands as he protects against the South African sun.

A packed house at Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch for South Africa’s Varsity Cup final. Not sure how the organisers calculated 50% capacity there – due to that country’s Covid regulations – but no complaints, what an occasion.

Well, who would be a TMO, the University of Pretoria won with a controversial pass that surely has to be forward. Reminiscent of France’s infamous win over New Zealand in the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

In Italy, Zebre ended a 27 game losing streak with a win over the Dragons. Look at what it means to the players and fans. Italian rugby is always soaked with pride, and that is why we love the game.

Wow! Northampton stalwart Courtney Lawes with a gruesome thumb injury! That makes for tough viewing, and he went on to play with that injury. Admirable effort, Courtney.

Elsewhere, this one is for all the props out there winning their team scrum penalties! The big lads get their own parking to fuel up. Brilliant stuff.

He is back! This Stormers‘ dancer went viral last week for his exploits before the game, and here he is again. Leave some of the spotlight for the players!

Someone call the burn ward. Bath‘s absolutely roasted in this one. Another tough outing for the Premiership outfit this week against Gloucester.