Virtual reality

The Australians have come up with a novel idea to combat the loneliness of the long-distance rugby player. Picturetel, a video-conferencing firm have provided the Aussies with a television link-up. Players will be able to see and appear before family members once or twice a week from the team hotels.

Equipment has been installed in the homes of hooker Phil Kearns and assistant coach Jeff Miller in Sydney, prop Dan Crowley's house in Brisbane and those who live in Canberra can call around to Patricio Noriega's house for a few tinnies. Sadly for the Aussie prop, injury means that he'll be there personally to greet them.