With little to comment on for kit changes so far, it seems noteworthy to mention that both Paddy Smith and Ketts have both switched their right hand gloves for the Obo version. As this season cranks up a notch in international involvement and training programmes, with the Olympics next June, I wonder if sponsorship has anything to do with it.
Smith himself as switched from the 'cross-continental' design of the Mercian rhp (a glove that had a lot to do with Nick Brothers' input and use of the TK rhp at the time), as demonstrated by Peter Savage's action photography:
The Obo Hi rebound glove now being used offers a larger blocking surface at the cost of more usage and movement on the ground when slide tackling etc. With Smith playing a more stand-up style as shown in his desire to stay on his feet for clearances and shot stopping early this season, it actually offers him more positives for his style. Presumably he had time to 'break in' the glove over the off-season in preparation for game time when it really matters.
Smith himself as switched from the 'cross-continental' design of the Mercian rhp (a glove that had a lot to do with Nick Brothers' input and use of the TK rhp at the time), as demonstrated by Peter Savage's action photography:
The Obo Hi rebound glove now being used offers a larger blocking surface at the cost of more usage and movement on the ground when slide tackling etc. With Smith playing a more stand-up style as shown in his desire to stay on his feet for clearances and shot stopping early this season, it actually offers him more positives for his style. Presumably he had time to 'break in' the glove over the off-season in preparation for game time when it really matters.
