As the rugby tournament has continued, the difficulties players face in this tough competition have become ever more apparent. Earlier this week my Australian team played its second game of the tournament against South Africa, and due to injuries sustained in the first
game we were without a couple of key players.
Our experienced captain, Andrew Hendry, broke his hand, while our towering second rower, Josh Kron, suffered a neck injury, which, although not serious in the long-term, required him to spend a night in hospital and to miss the remainder of the tournament. Injuries, of course, are not unusual in rugby, which is a contact sport, and other teams have also had their difficult situations to deal with.
Playing against South Africa on Tuesday we were comprehensively outplayed in the first half of the game, and although we picked ourselves up at half-time and played with spirit and determination in the second half, we were unable to avoid a disappointing loss.
Playing rugby in Israel is unlike the experience anywhere else in the word. The heat, for example, is extreme when compared to the chill winters of the U.K., Europe and even Australia. Also, being supported by so many people who know almost nothing about rugby, have never seen a game before yet are intensely interested in the game makes it a fantastic experience.
Playing through terror
Halfway through our last game, an unexpected and tragic event occurred just a few kilometers from where we were playing. As we played, the noise of helicopter gunships filled the air and we were to learn after the match that a suicide bomber had struck in nearby Netanya.
Our match had almost been canceled at half-time due to the bombing, although the decision was made to continue playing.
Following the game we were instructed to return straight to the hotel, where, for security reasons, we remained locked in for 24 hours.
Life goes on, however, and we were struck even on the journey back to the hotel that evening at the resilience and tenacity of the Israelis who were continuing with their usual routines whether they were walking their dogs, sitting in cafes or out partying.
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