Sergio Parisse reveals why he doesn't want his son to play rugby

Sunday, 12 July 2020 at 11:37

bySteven Smith

Italy legend Sergio Parisse believes the game has become unbalanced after revealing his wife doesn't want their son to play rugby.

The 36-year-old was particularly affected by the death of 19-year-old Nicolas Chauvin while at his former club, Stade Francais, the result of a massive double-hit in a tackle.

“My wife does not want our son to play rugby,” said Parisse, who was speaking to The Telegraph.

And the legend went onto support his wives point of view.

“These days for young players it is all about being really physical, lifting weights, being strong.

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"Of course, rugby is a contact sport and must be hard but what about finding space or giving a pass?

" We have lost some of the beauty, distorted the balance in the game.”

Wise words.

LIST | 6 internationals you didn’t know were still playing

Below, we have rounded up five internationals that we are certain you will be surprised to learn are still playing.

Did we miss anybody particularly noteworthy? Make sure you let us know in the comments below.

1. Kane Thompson

A real journeyman if there ever was one, Thompson has played for multiple teams around the world including stints in France, New Zealand, Japan, England and now America. The Samoa international had stints at the Highlanders and Chiefs in Super Rugby, as well as six different Mitre 10 Cup sides before rocking up in Major League Rugby to play for New Orleans Gold.

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2. Dave Ward

The Premiership stalwart joined Ampthill's Championship squad for 2019-20 as Player/Coach. At international level he has represented the England under-18s, under-21s and Saxons.

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3. Mike Tindall

England legend and World Cup winner Mike Tindall plays a selection of matches for Minchinhampton, the club close to his home. The centre played outside centre for Bath and Gloucester, and won 75 caps for England between 2000 and 2011. He was a member of the England squad which won the 2003 World Cup.

4. Alex Lutui

Lutui is an incredibly well-travelled player, having played in Super Rugby, the Premiership and PRO12 in his career. The hooker racked up 115 points in 181 appearances for Worcester Warriors between 2006-2013, so he certainly knows his way to the try line. Incredibly, the hooker still turns out for Ampthill aged 40.

5. Patrick Ah Van

The Super League legend, who starred for Bradford Bulls and Widnes Vikings between 2011 and 2018, made a late cross-code switch at the tailend his career, joining Sale FC in National League one. The winger, who played five times for Samoa, is still scoring regularly with Sale placed 11th before the season ended.

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6. Shane Williams

The Wales legend made a return to Welsh rugby in 2017, coming out of retirement to play for his beloved Amman United. The former Wales and British Lions star stunned spectators as he took the field for his home town side in the National League 3 West B match against Burry Port. He then played for them in a final at the Millenium Stadium. He's since played a further handful of games for the club.