Cam's Corner: It may be visionary, but I really can't see the point

IMAGINE a 120kg man-beast charging down the rugby field at you. You're the only defender left for your team, making the tackle means you essentially win the game. Scary thought for some.

Now, imagine that 120kg ogre wearing goggles. Yes, goggles, as in eye protection, on a rugby field. Not such a scary thought for some, I would say.

The IRB has announced that specially-approved goggles will be available for use, ensuring that "rugby is a game for all while promoting player welfare".

Somehow I struggle to see the concept growing legs in Northland, or New Zealand for that matter.

The goggles have been developed to enable people who require corrective lenses to wear goggles that are safe to themselves, their team-mates and opponents. They will also allow people with monocular vision, or chronic eye conditions, who wish to wear rugby goggles while playing contact rugby to do so.

It's certainly an interesting concept, and an inclusive one at that, but I still struggle to see how it is going to be sellable. I mean, let's be honest, it's not exactly sexy.

Being a typical Kiwi bloke, I get that some will laugh at a player running around a paddock with something that should belong at a swimming complex. But, maybe, at the same time, we should drop the macho attitude and understand that everyone is different - not everyone can see as good as the next person.

IRB head of technical services Steve Griffiths said: "Rugby is a game for all and the IRB recognises that not everyone who needs corrective glasses can wear contact lenses, particularly children, so we have been collaborating with a leading manufacturer to design and rigorously test a pair of rugby goggles that will be safe and effective in a rugby environment. We believe we have done that now and this trial is good news for anyone with eyesight issues who wishes to play the game."

The approved goggles are not designed to provide extra protection for players with chronic eye conditions, but if players consider them to be beneficial they can be worn for that purpose. Features of the approved goggles include high-speed impact resistance, anti-abrasion surfaces, anti-fogging, UV protection and a specially-designed strap with no clips, buckles or sharp edges.

While the goggles have been specially designed, who knows how practical they will be - I can't see how wearing goggles wouldn't just put a mark on your back and ask for opposition to yank off at the bottom of a ruck.

But, wait on, don't get too keen on the idea of playing in goggles because only goggles bearing the IRB trial-approved logo can be worn, with referees empowered to make the necessary checks. Also, in order to wear the approved accessory, there must be a 'need' for the goggles - with confirmation needed from an ophthalmologist or similar medical professional.

The approved goggles are not yet available in retail outlets, but they can be purchased direct from the manufacturer's website - www.raleri.com - and only after registration on the IRB Passport system to ensure that everyone who uses them will be in the system for providing feedback on the trial.

Now, you lot, don't all go rushing online to buy a pair ya hear - don't want the website to crash.