By Glen Leat
August 22 2009

The headline “Door not closed on ex-Bath pair” on the BBC website had me (literally) holding my head in despair. When will this saga, that has besmirched the good name of Bath Rugby, be over? In my last story I said I wouldn't be mentioning the names of Lipman and Crockett again but this latest situation gives me no choice.  I don't know about the rest of you, but the thought of having to welcome these two players back to the Rec would, quite frankly, leave a very nasty taste in my mouth!

Speaking to the BBC Bob Calleja said "I have met Lippy on two occasions. We talked to each other and exchanged pleasantries, shook hands and smiled - but it's a difficult relationship because of the appeal process."

Now I have a lot of time for Bob and I think he often receives unfair criticism from various factions about the management of our club but I'm disappointed that he can appear on such friendly terms with Lipman.

Perhaps in an environment where the club has to meet with these ex-players and their representatives Bob feels it is necessary to maintain professional relations. However I'd have preferred a "no comment" rather than a description that to my mind sounds far too chummy.

Both Michael Lipman and Alex Crockett were given the ultimate honour within Bath Rugby, the captain's armband. In my book this position requires a player to act to the highest standard at all times both inside and outside of the workplace.

Whilst both players consider themselves to be innocent victims in the summer drug shenanigans (and perhaps they are) I'm of the opinion that, as club captains, neither player should have found themselves in a position whereby a drug test was necessary. Then to refuse to take the tests that would have proved their innocence, thus prolonging the humiliation for Bath Rugby, created an untenable situation and therefore I cannot see how we could ever have them back at "our" club.

If Lipman or Crockett ever turn out for Bath Rugby again I'll have to seriously consider my position regarding supporting our great club.

What I have written above is a very watered down version of what I'd really like to say about this situation; however the last thing I need is letters from m'learned friends.