As we all know, the RFU, the ruling body of English rugby union, are searching for a new manager following the resignation of Martin Johnson last autumn. The interim appointment of Stuart Lancaster as caretaker manager for the Six Nations Championship does, however, appear to be a good one.
Although it is two weeks before the tournament begins Lancaster, the former manager of England’s reserves (the England Saxons) has made an encouraging start. He has said all the right things, cleared the decks, selected boldly, and seems to be doing everything he can to restore a proper sense of value and some humility to the side following the debacle of the 2011 World Cup. It has now been revealed, however, that the RFU wish to appoint a full time manager before the tournament is over, so no pressure on Lancaster there then. If the RFU were confident enough to make him caretaker manager why are they not confident enough and sensible enough to wait until the tournament’s conclusion before passing judgement on him?
If that in itself wasn’t crazy enough they have, instead of drawing up a list of possible candidates, appointed a firm of City headhunters to do it for them. What, how many could there realistically be? Ask anybody with even a basic knowledge of rugby union and they will probably be able to name at least four contenders. From the English ranks the aforementioned Stuart Lancaster along with the popular Jim Mallinder of Northampton and from the ranks of foreigners Nick Mallet of South Africa and Eddie Jones of Australia all appear realistic choices. Most rugby aficianados could probably double that number so why pay a slick firm of headhunters no doubt huge sums of money to do the job?
That money could be better spent on the grassroots of the game, kit and equipment for schools, improved facilities for junior clubs, coaching for inner city kids etc. It really does fill you with a sense of exasperation. In the 1990s Will Carling, the former England captain, described rugby union’s ruling body as “old farts”. Not a lot has changed has it?
Common Sense 
Totally agree. I think, and hope, that Stu Lancaster, aided by Farrell & rowntree might just produce the goods at the years 6 Nations. If so, stick with them tll post RWC 2015. It's only three & a half years till will host the RWC & we still have turmoil within the RFU, let alone the coaching staff. Hiring headhunters total waste of money !!!!