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With another season approaching and expansion just around the corner, I thought I would take a look back at Super Rugby’s history.
Looking through the archives, what didn’t surprise me was the sheer dominance of the Kiwi teams, which are light years ahead in the amount of titles and teams to win titles when compared south African and Australian teams (the Crusaders alone have one as many titles as Australia and South Africa combined).
Where the surprise did kick in was how poorly South Africa have performed.
As an Australian and Waratah supporter I have heard plenty of criticism of the Australian teams and conference – some justified some not. Going through the numbers there are some telling stats since Super Rugby’s inception in 1996
Super Rugby titles by country (since 1996)
New Zealand – 12
Australia – 4
South Africa – 3
Teams that have Won Super Rugby titles
New Zealand – Crusaders, Blues, Chiefs
Australia – Brumbies, Reds, Waratahs
South Africa – Bulls
Grand final appearances
New Zealand – 20
Australia – 10
South Africa – 7
Most wooden spoons
South Africa – 13
Australia – 4
New Zealand – 2
Most successive defeats
Lions – 15 (2010-2011)
Worst losing percentages
Southern Kings (RSA) – 76.47 per cent
Melbourne Rebels (Aus) – 75 per cent
Lions (RSA) – 73.53 per cent
Cats (RSA) – 71.84 per cent
Cheetahs (RSA) – 66.15 per cent
South African teams have not enjoyed the success of their New Zealand counterparts and, despite perceptions about the Australian conference, they have held their own (at least the foundation teams).
With expansion on the horizon and the guaranteed inclusion of a sixth south African team it may be more prudent to consolidate the teams they already have to ensure more success at Super level and push for a new conference entirely made up of new teams from Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Argentina or even the Pacific islands.
Before I am mauled in the comments section keep in mind this is purely based on super rugby alone and has no connection with the international teams.
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.