As football’s January transfer window slams shut tonight, Bath fly-half Danny Cipriani believes a similar concept needs to be introduced in rugby.
This season has seen the likes of Ellis Genge, George Ford and Taulupe Faletau all announce moves away from their clubs mid-season. However, Cipriani believes a set period culminating in a deadline day would help prevent disruption to teams.
“I think it [a transfer deadline day] should happen really,” Cipriani told ESPN.
“Just because you get people saying they are leaving in January, or even sooner.
“Then they are there for six months, but what is their motivation? Obviously they are still motivated, they still want to play but it is a strange position to be in, to know you are not going to be there.
“I think it would make it a bit more exciting for people to see It and maybe a bit more professional in that way.”
And Cipriani, who is a keen supporter of the NFL and NBA, sees the advantages of employing a draft system which could help to level the playing field.
“Draft system — yes, it’s great to watch,” Cipriani said. “It swings massively and it did for a while stop one team from winning but obviously the New England Patriots are just unbelievably strong right now. Well, they have been for a long time now. It is great to watch the draft system.”
5 rugby transfers that are likely going to happen..
#1. Danny Cipriani
- Age: 34
- Position: Fly-half
- Honours: England – 16 caps
- Where’s he going? Newcastle Falcons, Wasps
He has struggled to rediscover his best form in the black, blue and white shirt since joining last summer. Although you could point to a number of injuries as the reason for his slow start, he has undoubtedly proved to be a flop thus far.
He has struggled to rediscover his best form for Bath since joining in the summer following his six-month sabbatical after leaving Gloucester. Although you could point to several injuries as the reason for his slow start, he has undoubtedly proved to be a flop thus far at The Rec.
With his contract up at the end of the season, Cipriani has emerged as a target for Newcastle Falcons – who are looking for an experienced number 10 following Toby Flood’s retirement. With Jimmy Gopperth reportedly signing with Leicester Tigers, it’s also been suggested CIpriani could be set for a third and final stint with Wasps.
