Once again the ugly spectre of rest periods has raised its head, after Italy utterly failed to perform against a Romanian team that they would usually put away with the minimum of fuss.

In the regular season, a squad would never be asked to play games in such quick succession. On the odd occassion when this is the case, losing the extra games played is an occupational hazard, and is normally expected.

However, this tournament is supposed to be the crowning glory of the Rugby Union world. Surely, all 20 teams involved should be given every opportunity to perform to their maximum potential.

Given that the 2007 RWC is already being played over a six week period, adding an extra week to the schedule is not too much to ask, is it?