Five-team domestic comp to replace Super Rugby in Australia
Rugby Australia (RA) is set to announce an interim domestic men’s competition to replace this year’s Super Rugby tournament, with the Perth-based Western Force to be included.
Taniela Tupou (left) of the Reds scores a try during the Round 7 Super Rugby match between the Queensland Reds and the Bulls at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Saturday, March 14, 2020. (AAP Image/Darren England)
The Force were kicked out of Super Rugby at the end of the 2017 season, but they are set to play alongside Australia’s existing franchises, the New South Wales Waratahs, the Queensland Reds, the Brumbies and the Melbourne Rebels.
Japan’s Sunwolves, who are to be left out of Super Rugby beyond this year, may also be included in the competition and be based in Australia.
The competition is expected to begin in July.
RA’s decision to launch a domestic tournament comes after Super Rugby was suspended in March because of the coronavirus pandemic.
It would mirror similar competitions in New Zealand and South Africa, although the format has not been finalised.
Training for the Australian teams will begin this week after all sides are given biosecurity briefings.
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