They are breaking the rules…..they are only allowed on the field after a try has been scored, during a time out called by the ref or when someone is injured.
But they don’t enforce it, so Alfie stays on and coaches the team.
not necessarily true... this is from the operations manual.
c. Blue Trainer – (Messages)
i. The Blue (Messages) Trainer’s duties are limited to:-
1. Interchange of Players.
2. Provision of water.
3. Carrying messages to individual Team members.
ii. Is allowed access to the playing field:
1. When his team is in possession.
2. When a try has been scored.
3. While waiting for a Video Referee decision in relation to a try.
4. During a time-out called by the referee for an injury.
5. During a drop out.
iii. Must enter and leave the playing field without interfering with play.
iv. Must not give general messages to the Team or otherwise assist in the task of coaching (save for the carrying of messages to individual Team members) while play is progressing.
the bunker and refs can hear supposed 'team' coaching through microphones (bunker) or ref's ears.
considering Alf's 'reputation' in this area, i would suspect that ref's (both on field and bunker) would be on to it.
also, EVERY OTHER TEAM does the same thing.