Former Argentina captain Agustin Pichot slammed his federation chiefs on Friday declaring that the domestic scene was a disgrace.
The 33-year-old scrumhalf — who led the Pumas to a stunning third place in the World Cup, including two victories over hosts France — told Argentine daily La Nacion he could not believe the manner in which the federation chiefs were dealing with the question over making the domestic game professional.
”What Argentine rugby is going through is a disgrace,” said Pichot, who played in four World Cups and won over 70 caps.
”It is unbelievable what is going on at the moment.”
According to Alejandro Risler, president of the Argentinian Rugby Union (UAR), his preference is to leave the domestic league amateur but place under contract the Pumas squad — the 2007 World Cup group threatened to strike months before the tournament because they were only being paid expenses.
However, Pichot was not even happy with Risler’s new proposal.
”The Argentinian directors change their minds every day and in those conditions it is difficult to get anything done,” said Pichot, who, having played for French giants Stade Francais, is now plying his trade with another Parisian side, second division Metro Racing. — Sapa-AFP