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The evolution of Super Rugby has continued apace over the past few weeks. No matter your opinion on the increased number of teams and new format, the competition needs to secure the financial future of both Australian and New Zealand rugby.
The new European rugby competition has created even greater wealth for the best teams, and they will seek to purchase the best talent from the Southern Hemisphere to improve their squads.
South Africa, New Zealand and Australia, in this order, suffer from the number of players going to Europe, but the first two countries can manage this challenge better than Australia due to the popularity of the code there.
The addition of the Force and Rebels is great for the competition now that they have strong teams, but has created a shortage of Super Rugby quality players in Australia which has impacted New Zealand in recent times.
A number of players have left New Zealand to ply their trade in the warmer climates of Australia. Steve Hansen had gone on record a few years ago voicing his concern at the “poaching”, and over the past week has changed tack and advised that he believes the All Blacks would select players playing in Australia if required.
I think this is the right approach for the situation. In professional rugby, players need to do what they believe is right for their careers, wellbeing and family.
The growing trend of New Zealand born players in Australian Super Rugby teams is a reflection of the number of Kiwis that have moved across the Tasman over the past 20 years. This will help build the strength of rugby union as a code in Australia as it fights against rugby league, Australian rules and football.
A strong Australian rugby brand is important for New Zealand, ensuring financial stability for rugby in both countries without being reliant on the cycle of Lions tours or the Rugby World Cup. This will assist in keeping the marquee players in both countries and prevent them from taking offers in Japan or Europe.
Hansen has realised the impact of potential All Blacks moving to Australia, and this will be an interesting dynamic to watch unfold.
To highlight my point on the number of New Zealand-born players at Australian franchises, I’ve chosen a potential squad – with the exception of Sekope Kepu, who played age group rugby for New Zealand, as I was desperate for another international quality prop.
New Zealand-born Australian squad
1. Sekope Kepu
2. Patrick Leafa
3. Toby Smith
4. Jack Whetton
5. Will Skelton
6. Jarrad Buttler
7. Scott Fuglistaller
8. Fotu Auelua
9. Alby Mathewson
10. Quade Cooper
11. Peter Betham
12. Christian Lealiifano
13. Tamiti Ellison
14. Joe Tomane
15. Jason Woodward
Replacements
Chris Feauai-Sautia
Mike Harris
Paul Alo-Emile
Pekahou Cowan
Jayden Hayward
It’s not a bad team, and has a backline I would pay to watch.
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.