NICK CAIN

IT is rare in Rugby Union that the disciplinary focus shifts from what happens on the pitch to what happens in the stands, but, unfortunately, it is occuring with increasing frequency to the detriment of the game.
The recent Autumn series highlighted not just the decline in the behaviour of fans but also the decline in their interest in the game and knowledge of it. The upshot is that international rugby stadiums are losing that thrum of excitement and anticipation that traditionally has always been generated on big match days.
This shrinking atmosphere appears to be linked inex...