Rugby Australia and New Zealand Rugby discuss Super Rugby overhaul

Rugby Australia and New Zealand Rugby (NZR) are discussing a potential overhaul of Super Rugby to create an “open borders” competition. The proposed model, inspired by the NRL, aims to boost interest and attract investors by allowing players to move between Australian and New Zealand franchises without losing national eligibility.

NZR chief executive Steve Lancaster stated that the organization is open to discussing changes to its eligibility policy. This could allow New Zealand players to compete for Australian Super Rugby clubs while remaining eligible for the All Blacks. Currently, New Zealand does not select overseas-based players for the national team, whereas Australia allows for the selection of three offshore players per series.

The discussions follow a reaffirmation of commitment to Super Rugby and the NPC by the NZR board, after previous concerns regarding financial forecasts and cost-cutting measures.