The Australian Rugby Union Players' Association has launched a petition against the cutting of an Australian team from the Super Rugby competition.
The petition called "Stronger As Five", warns that agreeing to cut an Australian team as part of a wider Super Rugby shakeup will "signal a retreat" in the competitive Australian sporting market place.
A decision on which team should be cut from the competition is expected as early as next week.
Western Force, Rebels and Brumbies are the team being considered.
The Highlanders meet the Rebels at 6.35 tonight, the Blues face Western Force at 4.15pm tomorrow, the Chiefs clash with the Bulls at 6.35pm tomorrow and the Waratahs will face the Crusaders at 6.05pm Sunday.
