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Now that the results of the latest SANZAR negotiations are complete and announced, credit needs to go to John O’Neill and his team for the outcome and the benefits it brings to Australian rugby.
He has clearly developed a strong bond of trust with Steve Tew of New Zealand Rugby. This will benefit both countries while it continues to hold.
A longer season and more local derbies equate to more money to pay players and go into the development of the game. Together with changes in Northern Hemisphere Rugby recruitment policies, this will mean that fewer players will need to leave SANZAR shores to earn their market value or make a living playing rugby.
Taking the other codes on with our best product is a good idea.
The South Africans negotiate in the same manner as they play their rugby: aggressive, bullying, brinkmanlike, selfish and myopic. Getting past this unique style was very difficult, but John O’Neill and his team achieved it.
In essence, O’Neill has achieved more product each year and the right product at the right time of the year.
It is not yet time to relax. Negotiations with broadcasters are yet to commence, but the principles are already announced: some free to air games, not selling global rights to just one broadcaster and at least maintaining the same revenue per game as in the current contract.
Whether you agree with his style or not, results speak for themselves. He has again confirmed that he is the premier sports administrator in the Southern Hemisphere and probably globally.
Finally, I look forward to O’Neill’s responses to the Roarer’s very commendable questions / recommendations.
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.