The heat protocol in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific is “killing” the momentum of games, according to Swire Shipping Fijian Drua Head Coach Glen Jackson.
Jackson raised concerns to the media this week following the team's 21–6 loss to the Queensland Reds in Lautoka, pointing to extended breaks as a major disruption to the flow of matches.
Jackson says the enforced 20-minute half-time, combined with additional cooling breaks, is having a noticeable impact on his team’s ability to maintain pressure and intensity.
Insert: Jacko - killing our game March 26
Jackson also raised concerns about consistency across playing environments, suggesting that similar considerations are not applied when teams travel to significantly colder climates.
Insert: Jacko - killing the momentum March 26
The Drua continue to prepare for their upcoming fixtures, with the focus now on maintaining team cohesion and performance standards.
The Drua play the Blues tomorrow at 6.05pm in Auckland.
In other games, Moana Pasifika host the Highlanders at 6.05pm tonight, the Brumbies will meet the Waratahs at 8.35pm.
Tomorrow, the Hurricanes will face the Reds at 3.35pm, while the Force play the Chiefs at 8.35pm.
