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Super Rugby in 2016 will take a vastly different shape to what we see today. After yesterday’s announcement from Bill Pulver, New Zealand Rugby Union have made a statement of their own.
18 teams, four conferences, two regional groups confirmed. There will be three new teams – from South Africa, Argentina and one other. The competition will be shorter – one week less for all teams.
The refreshed competition will kick off from 2016 New Zealand Rugby CEO Steve Tew says the model offers the best chance to ensure it continues to be the premier international provincial rugby competition in the world.
“We wanted Super Rugby to remain a competitive, entertaining and commercially viable competition, one players enjoy being part of and we think this structure ticks all those boxes.
“This is the best option to evolve what is already a fantastic competition and one that continues to deliver for fans, teams, players and sponsors.
“From a player point of view it was important that we managed the travel of the teams. We needed a platform that ensured our best players could continue to perform at their peak. Equally keeping South Africa in the regular competition was an important part of what makes Super Rugby.
“With a later start and one less match for each team in the competition, we believe we have got the balance right. We also believe we have a competition that will continue to feed a winning All Blacks team.
“From a fans’ perspective, there will still be plenty of derbies to enjoy as well as top rugby from the best players in the world. Now we have a great opportunity to ensure Super Rugby continues to flourish in what is an increasingly competitive market for sports fans’ attention.”
The new teams will comprise one new team from South Africa and Argentina, and another selected in a competitive tender.
Teams will play in one of four conferences split evenly into two regional groups – the Australasia Group and the South Africa Group.
Steve Tew said the new structure had been approved and confirmed by all SANZAR nations and Argentina following a thorough consultation and negotiation process with national Unions, Super Rugby organisations and teams and will now form the basis for negotiations with the competition’s broadcast partners.
Super Rugby teams and players welcome new format
Chiefs Rugby Club Chairman Dallas Fisher said the changes were a natural evolution of the competition, while at the same time keeping the best elements of the existing format.
“We know that fans love the New Zealand derby matches so it’s great to see they have been retained. At the same time we know that innovations are important if we want to see Super Rugby grow.”
Crusaders Coach Todd Blackadder said: “As a coach, we were looking for a competition that continues to offer a great playing environment and real competition.
“Super Rugby is an outstanding competition, and it’s exciting to think that we’ll have new teams in the mix – but most importantly, we are keeping the number of matches and the length of the season manageable.”
Rugby Players Association CEO Rob Nichol said: “In our view this proposal is the best of the options put forward given the complexity of issues, and number and location of teams involved.
“While recognising there is still some work to do around the new teams, draw logistics and commercialisation we support its presentation to the broadcasters and fans. We feel that in taking the time to fully comprehend it they too will appreciate the subtle aspects of what is ultimately a practical compromise, and quite exciting prospect, for all involved.”
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.