Madam, - Heaven forfend that rugby players wearing the green of Ireland and expected to have that country foremost in their affections should have to suggest such an allegiance with Amhrán na bhFiann, God Save Ireland or even The Wearing of the Green. But can anyone who does hold Ireland first among national affections stand taller, straighter and more proud to the strains of Ireland's Call?
Would it not put more joy in Irish bellies, and more fear in those of opposing teams, if the air of YMCA were adopted, naturalised if not nationalised, and the refrain changed to "IRFU"? Haka be hanged! - Yours, etc,
DONAL KENNEDY,
London N13.