Sunday‘s quarter finals

Our readership has had plenty of opportunity to read of two more thrilling matches so I thought I would major on the coverage which, in my view, did not match the occasion.

I was particularly irritated by David Flatman – the analyst for ITV’s coverage of France v South Africa.

He delivers in a staccato sententiously, as befits someone who, in his own view, has played at the highest level and therefore knows his stuff.

A good analyst is someone who – if sitting beside you – adds value and also supports the commentator.

Flatman does neither.

I also listened to Steve Grossman on Radio 5 – or ‘Grossy’ as he is called in the matey non inclusive world of Radio 5 sports.

He was talking so fast and furiously as to be almost out of control.

In the press The Sunday Times’ main rugby correspondent can hardly conceal his dislike of the All Blacks and 75% of his report was on Ireland who, on the day, were beaten by the better side.

England may now be the only Six Nations side left standing but they of all eight quarter-final sides – Ben Earl notwithstanding – are the least attractive to watch.