Rugby: Tom Philip reveals Blair advice in switch to rugby league

RUGBY LEAGUE convert Tom Philip has revealed he turned to Scotland colleague Mike Blair for advice before switching to Championship side Whitehaven this week.

Philip has had a wretched time with injuries since gaining the last of his five Scotland caps successively throughout the 2004 Six Nations Championship and has hardly played since.

But now, in an exclusive interview with the Evening News, the ex-Edinburgh Accies centre has talked of his desire for a fresh start with old school pal Blair providing key guidance.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"As Mike Blair agreed when I discussed a comeback with him: 'if not now, when?' said Philip.

A three-month deal has lured Philip to Cumbria and while all options are open he makes it clear he could be in the 13-a-side code for the long haul.

"I've had a lot of troubles and difficulties so I thought 'why not do something I'd really love to do'? he said. "I have always had a massive respect for rugby league and remember going to watch a couple of Challenge Cup Finals at Murrayfield. I even had some rugby league shirts when I was younger. So far as my (current) fitness is concerned when someone has back problems as I have had very often that can put strain on the hamstrings which is what happened to me.

"Recently. though, I had a jag which has left me feeling much better although I know there is a lot to do before I'm 100 per cent to my own satisfaction. When the option to go to League arose I could have made excuses but Mike Blair agreed with my thinking which was if not now, when?

"It's nice to still be remembered although that isn't my motivation; I just love playing rugby and want to try again. I don't want this to be a big deal just a learning experience that can increase my all-round knowledge of rugby.

"Already I'm aware from my trial last weekend – if I'm picked for Whitehaven against Blackpool great, if not I'll go and watch and learn – that although rugby league looks similar to rugby union there is so much discipline involved that makes it different.

"Players have to be disciplined to stick to the plans created to take the game to certain areas of the pitch and there is also the fitness factor. Rugby league is very tough on the lungs but it's horrible being my age and (just) watching," said Philip. "This might be one way to get back into rugby but the prospect of going all the way into Super League would be really appealing."