EARLIER this week, we covered a story about Argentine rugby union coach Mario Ledesma expressing concerns over the mental wellbeing of his team. This marks just one occasion of many where coaches have highlighted the consequences that gruelling schedules, extra fixtures and lack of rest has on their players.

Ledesma’s men finished their autumn European tour with a defeat in Dublin, prompting discussion about the wellbeing of his players: “We’re always talking about player welfare, mental health and then you go two years without playing at home and being in a bubble.

“I challenge any team to do that. It would be a struggle,” he said.