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As most Roarer’s would be aware, the NSWRU has officially approved the reformation of the Sydney Rugby Union. With this reformation, the NSWRU has now effectively freed itself from administrating both the Shute Shield and the Waratahs.
The Shield and its future are now firmly in the hands of those who have long since coveted control – the Clubs themselves. The move leaves far more questions than answers.
Questions like:
* How exactly does the incoming board of the SRU plan to increase current sponsorship levels within the competition?
* How do they plan to bolster exposure?
* How will this move lead to a stronger level of competition within the Shield, not just amongst the current powerhouses, but for the likes of Parramatta and Penrith?
Furthermore, while the questions above are perhaps the most obvious, others regarding the future structure of the Shield need to be asked.
They have already indicated they will look to forge stronger ties with the Brisbane Competition.
If so, what will that mean for the future of Sydney Rugby. More importantly, what will it mean for regions just outside of their sphere of influence, like the Hunter and Illawarra?
These are areas with the necessary club infrastructure to support teams in an expanded Shield.
Will they open the door for the Rebels franchise to enter its own teams?
Conversely, what does the further separation of assets by the NSWRU mean for grassroots Rugby within NSW?
So there’s still plenty of questions to be asked and answered, and all we can do is speculate. It would be good if details could come sooner rather than later and questions and fears regarding the future of the Shield answered in a timely fashion.
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.