Leicester’s Michael Cheika, Bath’s Johann van Graan, Bristol’s Pat Lam, and Sale’s Alex Sanderson convened for a special episode of Rugby Union Weekly.
Leading English rugby coaches express their eagerness to embrace the high-stakes pressure of this weekend’s Premiership semi-finals.
“If you can’t relish this pressure, find a different profession,” declares Bath’s Johann van Graan, as his league-leading team prepares to face Bristol on Friday.
“What’s the point if you’re not enjoying it?” adds Leicester’s Michael Cheika.
“Embrace the intensity; thrive under pressure. We wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Let’s seize the opportunity.”
Following the regular season, two teams will advance to the June 14th final at Twickenham’s sold-out Allianz Stadium. Leicester hosts Sale the day after Friday’s West Country derby.
In a special Rugby Union Weekly podcast, we exclusively featured the four coaches strategizing for Premiership glory, days before their pivotal matches.
“A semi-final isn’t enough,” states Sale’s Alex Sanderson, who’s guided his team to three consecutive semi-finals without securing the championship.
“No disrespect to Leicester—I admire Michael’s work—our game models are quite similar.
“But there’s a limit to how many times you can knock on the door. It’s time to break it down. The team, we simply desire more.
“After a long season, a beach vacation might be tempting, but not now. This journey mustn’t end yet.”
Bristol’s Pat Lam adds: “I value the privilege. I have five children, aged 18 to 32. My team is like my family.
“I’m invigorated witnessing their experiences. They’ve earned this moment, they’ve given so much.
“PSG’s 5-0 Champions League victory showcased a team enjoying themselves. PSG winning 5-0
“I’m privileged, fortunate to be involved.”
Van Graan concludes: “This isn’t about fear; it’s about attacking the challenge. May the best team win.
“What would the world be without sport? I’m privileged to be a part of it, part of a team striving for success.
“To reach the next stage, we must overcome a formidable opponent on Friday.”
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In his debut Premiership season, Cheika says he’s “enjoyed the journey” and is impressed by the league’s diverse playing styles, particularly Bristol’s expansive approach.
He envisions the Premiership rivaling the NRL, becoming a global sporting powerhouse. He supports plans for a franchise model to elevate the league.
“It should emulate the NRL, considering the population. The sport deserves a stronger financial base. The league needs growth—more funding for greater impact,” Cheika stated.
“There’s a strong foundation here, but it needs a centralized economy to generate momentum, preventing teams from financial collapse. This requires increased sponsorship, viewership, merchandising, and a more lucrative TV deal.
“From an outsider’s perspective, the potential for national growth is immense.”
However, with the league’s current structure threatened by a potential breakaway league, Van Graan emphasizes the importance of tradition. He believes the league is strong after a challenging period.
“The recent Bath-Bristol match in Cardiff was phenomenal. It felt like a Test match,” he recalled. Bath played Bristol
“The Premiership has so much to offer. My father attended the 1991 World Cup and brought back grass from Twickenham, which I still cherish. Twickenham holds a special place in my heart. Three years ago, our game against Quins there was incredible.
“I can’t influence franchising, rebel leagues, or external factors. I focus on my team, and I believe all 10 Premiership teams have contributed to a compelling spectacle, each in their own way.
“We’re diverse, yet respectful. The Premiership is in a good place.”
George Ford’s strong finish to the season earned him April’s Premiership Player of the Month award.
The semi-finals feature top fly-halves: Scotland’s Finn Russell versus the USA’s AJ MacGinty on Friday, followed by England’s George Ford and South Africa’s Handre Pollard on Saturday.
“Every rugby player has talent, but some are exceptional, able to elevate their game,” notes Lam.
Sanderson adds: “I’ve worked with AJ, observed Finn Russell, and seen Handre in South Africa. These players are practically coaches in rugby shirts.
“At this stage, they take increasing ownership. That’s what defines great players. Ford is one of them. He’ll be a great coach, but he still has years left on the field.”
Cheika concurs. “Ford should be on the Lions tour,” he asserts. “He’s high-caliber; a coach in a player’s jersey.”
Van Graan highlights Russell’s unwavering professionalism, despite his extensive experience.
“During a 2011 NFL visit to the 49ers, I saw a banner: ‘Either you get better or you get worse—you choose’,” he recounts.
“Finn generates much hype, but he’s missed minimal training, aside from a five-week injury. That’s the dedication we seek. We need players driving the team forward.
“It’s a privilege to witness these players perform, and to coach with and against them. Why do we coach? For the memories and to help players achieve their goals.”
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