Mike Tindall has sparked outrage over his highly controversial comment about England’s performance in Saturday’s Six Nations match. The former rugby professional shared his view on his own sporting podcast, The Good, The Bad and The Rugby.
Commenting on how Steve Borthwick’s side essentially handed victory to their opponents through a dismal display, he said: “They were desperate to win that game, and I think a few of their individuals stood up and had great games. But, and there is a big but in this, they did not have to do anything to win that game. It was all given to them by England.”
Mike, who has been married to Princess Anne’s daughter Zara since 2011, pointed to England’s statistical superiority throughout the match – also observing that the ball frequently spilt out uncontrolled to scrum-half Alex Mitchell.
He added: “The amount of times the ball flew out the back to Mitchell, it rolled out the back. It wasn’t controlled.”
Irish rugby fans have discussed Mike’s comment on social media, with one referring to it as “embarrassing”.
A South African fan also wrote: “That’s a hot take if I ever saw one. England allowed themselves to get blitzed…? Give credit where it’s due!”
Catherine, who is known for her love of a range of sports, is the patron of the Rugby Football Union.
Apparing in high spirits, the 44-year-old was pictured smiling as she wore purple to match the occasion.
Catherine – who sported a purple England Rugby scarf – was pictured alongside RFU President Deborah Griffin in the stands before the Guinness Men’s Six Nations match.