Super Rugby Pacific structural discussions

Overview

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and Rugby Australia are engaged in discussions regarding a potential overhaul of the Super Rugby Pacific competition. The proposed changes focus on creating an “open borders” model, similar to the NRL, to increase investor interest and competition levels.

A central component of these talks involves relaxing eligibility rules. NZR chief executive Steve Lancaster indicated openness to discussions with Rugby Australia and the Rugby Players Association about allowing players to move between Australian and New Zealand franchises without losing their national team eligibility. This would address current policies where New Zealand does not select overseas-based players for the All Blacks, whereas Australia allows for the selection of three offshore players per series.

The discussions follow financial concerns and a restructuring of the league, which is expected to feature 10 teams next season following the disbanding of Moana Pasifika and the Melbourne Rebels.

Entities

New Zealand Rugby · Rugby Australia · Steve Lancaster · Super Rugby · Phil Waugh

Timeline

1 day ago

[SPORTS] 2 sources
Rugby Australia and New Zealand Rugby discuss Super Rugby overhaul
Rugby Australia and New Zealand Rugby are exploring an “open borders” Super Rugby model to increase competition interest and investor appeal by easing player eligibility rules.
4 days ago

[SPORTS] 5 sources
New Zealand Rugby considers player movement for Super Rugby Pacific
New Zealand Rugby is considering relaxing player movement rules to boost Super Rugby Pacific, potentially allowing Test players to represent Australian teams to improve competition and financial stability.

Sources

americanindependent.com · devdiscourse.com · nzsportswire.com · perthnow.com.au · superrugbynews.fr · theage.com.au · world-today-journal.com