How would teams do in Europe if the HEC first round was played en block?

Hound_of_Harrow wrote: I think Leinster would struggle to put in performances every week if the HC was played in one block, rather than two games each month in Oct, Dec & Jan in the pool rounds of the HC.

Now that is an interesting thought.????

It would suit the Welsh clubs as they currently lose their star players for an extra week on Wales duty. There was a marked contrast in the Welsh performances in Europe last season after the autumn internationals as opposed to before.

Leinster, and everyone else would have to adjust to the changed setup. And then Leinster would still be the best team.

It would depend on squad depth. Injuries are almost certain to accrue.
Why do internationalists need a rest week?

greytiger wrote:It would depend on squad depth. Injuries are almost certain to accrue.
Why do internationalists need a rest week?

Their unions decide it.

If AP teams had the same player management programme - agreed with Premier Rugby - as the IRFU, how would AP teams do in the Heineken Cup?

Pot Hale wrote:

greytiger wrote:It would depend on squad depth. Injuries are almost certain to accrue.
Why do internationalists need a rest week?

Their unions decide it.

If AP teams had the same player management programme - agreed with Premier Rugby - as the IRFU, how would AP teams do in the Heineken Cup?

I don't think there is enough percentage of English players in the Premiership to make as much of a difference as the player management in Ireland.