Raring to go

That's definitely not me in the picture.

However, it could be, if I were magically transformed into a younger, better-looking, and slimmer version of myself. But here's the kicker—I've been training. Well, physically, at least. Mentally? Not so much. Frankly, my mental capacity isn't what I should be working on; it's more like a 'work-in-progress.'

I managed to get somewhat fit and passed the fitness tests that some others in the society far younger than me didn't. I tapered rather well for the start of the season.

"Tapering," that's what the experts call it, right? This must be what the most optimistic England supporters are hoping for as Steve Borthwick takes the helm of the England team. Oh, the joy we'll feel after shattering everyone's low expectations by miraculously defeating Argentina on Saturday night.

So, in that sense, I'm a lot like the finely tuned athletes of the England squad. Wales too, actually, because everyone knows they get impressively fit. And of course, South Africa—no surprises there. But then there are those countries like France and Ireland, who typically start strong but end up fizzling out or peaking too early. I'm familiar with the feeling.

But here's where I diverge slightly from England's preparations. I took off for a weekend in Prague for some much-needed R & R. Although, to be honest, there wasn't much rest involved. It was more like indulgence central—I drank loads and ate even more. Lots of fun. The only responsible thing I did was pack my training shorts and sneakers because the hotel had a gym, and I couldn't bear the thought of completely derailing my carefully crafted plan to hit the ground running (and maybe keep running) when it comes to the World Cup or the start of my season. Wishful thinking, you say? Well, that's not exactly a first.

Looking forward to the World Cup starting on Friday night—typically followed by a school game on Saturday morning to kick my season off. How has this happened? I so rarely do school games, particularly not morning ones. It will be interesting, especially as there is some talk about new tackle laws???

Now, I just have to work out how to get fit again in a few days before the World Cup, sort out my fantasy team, find my whistle and flags, work out how this referees app on my watch works and check up the new tackle laws—easy, right?