His rugby legends tour is coming the Corn Exchange
Martin Bayfield’s rugby legends tour is coming to Exeter on 6 October.
Before his tour started, Radio Exe’s Brad Hardware spoke to Martin about his career and what to expect in the show.
After his rugby career, which involved playing in the second row for Northampton Saints, the England national team and even a few appearances in the British and Irish Lions’ squads, Martin got into acting and even appeared in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
When asked about that the departure of Sam Simmonds and the possible move of Jack Nowell at the end of the season meant for Exeter Chiefs, Martin said: "Exeter Chiefs are losing a part of their heritage
"No one would ever want to lose players of that quality,but it is the nature of rugby.
"People are excited for what the future holds for those players. They have one shot at this and they have to take it.
There's been increased financial pressures on Premiership teams recently, with both Worcestor Warriors and Wasps in difficulties.
When asked about what could be done, Martin said: "It would be nice to have a better structured season and potentially fewer teams." This is his idea to protect finacial security in the clubs as the salary cap is moving world class players to other leagues leagues.
"A competeitve top two divisions would be nice as well. I would like the championship to be more recognised... so if a team gets relegated it won't signal the end." The discussion of the number of replacements came up also. “If there isn’t so many replacements in a team, the expenses would be lower meaning less money problems".
"Some stability and common sense would be nice."
"Playing for England was phenomenal."
Martin also explained why he wanted to start his rugby legends tour.
He said: "The idea of a tour came to me in lockdown... during lockdown i was contacted asking for a message- as they missed rugby". Rugby creates great story tellers”.
"I think it is a great opportunity to take my stories and other rugby players’ experiences and create a tour." This was for people with a large passion in rugby to hear stories and engage with former players. There are different speakers joining Martin at different shows."
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