Sir Clive Woodward has blasted the “stupid” group of Barbarians players for a breach of coronavirus protocols that has placed Sunday’s fixture against England being cancelled.
The 12 players left their hotel bubble – contrary to team protocols – to have dinner at a London restaurant.
During its investigation, the Rugby Football Union (RFU) said it discovered another breach where players left the hotel without permission.
“I’m sure they’re feeling incredibly stupid and incredibly embarrassed. It’s just stupidity, they’ve been ridiculously stupid,” said Woodward, who was speaking to talkSport.
“My reaction was just kind of gobsmacked really. These are professional players and they know what’s at stake. It’s live on TV, it’s a game that everyone was looking forward to.
“I can’t believe they’ve been so naive and stupid to think they can get away with it. People could see them, they’re well-known people. I just shake my head in disbelief.
“I can believe the Barbarians didn’t sit down and spell it out – A, B, C. This is what you can do and this is what you can’t do. Everyone who steps out of this bubble, you’re gone. You’re history.
“It’s called a bubble for that reason. Some of the players went out, some of them didn’t. Some players listened, some haven’t, which makes it even worse in many respects.”
Sir Clive Woodward selects eight Englishmen in his Lions 2021 XV
BACK-THREE: Stuart Hogg (Scotland), Liam Williams (Wales), Anthony Watson (England)
“I’d start these three, but could have Jonny May and Josh Adams adding pace off the bench.”
CENTRES: Manu Tuilagi (England) & Jonathan Davies (Wales)
“Similar partnership to Te’o and Davies in 2017, but with even more power.”
