Too true, and rugby’s howls of anguish are echoed by the powers-that-be in hockey, squash, wrestling, badminton, diving, table tennis, and mountain biking. If I was the sports minister of India, for example, I wouldn’t even bother turning up because the most populous nation on Earth’s traditional strengths are not being catered for at all.

Glasgow was confirmed as host of the 2026 Commonwealth Games on Tuesday, the Scottish city stepping in after the Australian state of Victoria withdrew due to cost concerns, with organisers set to deliver a pared-down edition of the multi-sport event.