Sir, - I am not opposed to change but I do believe that it should be justified by those who advocate it. In the case of the IRFU, in effect the trustees of the future of Irish rugby, I would deem this essential.
However, once again the silence of IRFU publicity machine, bar the brief confirmation last Friday of a change of management personnel, has left rugby supporters to speculate and surmise as to why and under what circumstances the IRFU deemed it appropriate not to renew the contract of Warren Gatland.
The absence of any justification from the IRFU will lead to rumours and conjecture which may be inimical to the unity and team spirit that have been critical to recent provincial and national success in the game.
It is hard to argue that Eddie O'Sullivan benefits from the lack of transparency regarding his accession. Indeed, the opposite may be the case as he replaces a man whose record stands up well to comparison with both his predecessors and his overseas equivalents and who was a popular figure in the game.
I wish Mr Gatland well in his future endeavours. I suspect that his experience and expertise will be utilised beyond our shores, and sadly not for the benefit of the Irish game. As an Irish supporter I wish Mr O'Sullivan all the best in his efforts to enhance our recent record and momentum. - Yours, etc.,
Maurice Leo, Eardley Road, London SW16.