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Many have stirred over the potential signings of the Victorian Rebels rugby team. This is not a danger, nor is it to the detriment of youth within Australia. This could be, with careful balance, a great marketing opportunity.
An opening to international players could mean that the Rebels become the diversity team. Rather than simply look at saffas, kiwis and islanders, look beyond the Tri-Nation’s borders to Japan, greater Africa and the rest of the developing rugby world.
Surely, some of those who play international for a mid-ranked team will be at some sort of level close to Super 15. Ensuring that some of these players make it into the team could mean a knock on effect to attract those of different cultural and racial backgrounds into the game in Australia.
After all, Australia is the nation of nations.
Look at a school rugby game in Australia and you are only likely to see whites, islanders and maybe the occasional Aboriginal. I’m part Chinese myself, but didn’t see any other Asians playing rugby in my schooling career.
This may spell that rugby may have itself a part in racial stereotyping it needs to defeat. The Rebels can spell an end to this.
Some here will argue that the incentives offered in some Asian countries and African nations and developing European nations may have already been tagged by the more professional and higher earning rugby places.
Some, though, pass through the filter and others may be attracted to the lifestyle opportunities within Australia, the great and lucky country.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.