Six Nations: Robinson situation casts shadow over upbeat England

England's pampered rugby elite are facing an unwanted probe this morning.

England's pampered rugby elite are facing an unwanted probe this morning.

Despite thumping the hapless Italians by a record 80-23 Six Nations score on Saturday, the presence of former rugby league star Jason Robinson has posed a question or two.

Robinson is no stranger to record-breaking rugby.

As a member of Wigan's imperious rugby league side of the nineties, he was accustomed to sweeping opposition away, so he felt entirely at home after coming on to make his international union debut against Italy on Saturday when England carved through the Italians like a hot knife through Gorgonzola.

Despite being on the pitch for 35 minutes, and in spite of being one of league's fastest stars, Robinson did not receive one pass from his new brethren on Saturday.

The question now being asked of Clive Woodward's men is - are they incapable of finding the wide men anymore, or did they snub a rugby star who has no need to prove himself on the international stage?

Robinson received a heroes' welcome at Twickenham when the Sale winger's 50th minute introduction confirmed him as the first ever player to wear the white of England in both codes.

He said afterwards: "It was a great feeling to hear that roar, because it was a roar. I didn't know how people would take to me, but now I know there are a lot of people behind me."

When asked about the situation that he will surely one day tell his grandchildren about, Robinson magnanimously said: "They tried their best to get it to me but, unfortunately, the inside runners always got the try.

"To be honest, I'm not really bothered about that. Just being out there gave me a massive sense of achievement."

more courts articles

Defendant in Cobh murder case further remanded in custody Defendant in Cobh murder case further remanded in custody
Further charges to be brought against accused in MV Matthew drugs haul case Further charges to be brought against accused in MV Matthew drugs haul case
Football fan given banning order after mocking Munich air disaster Football fan given banning order after mocking Munich air disaster

More in this section

Leinster v Munster - United Rugby Championship Rowntree 'very happy' with Kleyn plan amid reports on seriousness of eye injury 
Scott Bemand speaks to the team huddle after the game 20/4/2024 Ireland moving on from Twickenham horror show and eying up World Cup qualification
Leinster v Toulouse - Heineken Champions Cup Semi-Final Leinster confident Ringrose and Keenan will be fit for Champions Cup semi-final
Sport Push Notifications

By clicking on 'Sign Up' you will be the first to know about our latest and best sporting content on this browser.

Sign Up
Sport
Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers

Sign up
Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited