All Blacks legend Sir John Kirwan has proposed a dramatic shift to the structure of club rugby in the southern hemisphere, one which would see the end of Super Rugby as we know it.
Sir John, who played in 63 Tests for the All Blacks, is proposing a system that would see greater parity with the structure of the northern hemisphere, with domestic rugby the main feature.
The proposal would see New Zealand's 14 provincial unions and six from Australia combine into a 20‑team competition, while any international club‑based tournament, including sides from South Africa and Japan, would become involved in a Heineken Cup style format, Sir John told Stuff.
The move would effectively streamline club rugby in the Southern Hemisphere, allowing for a proper Test window in June before the Rugby Championship.
The benefits of the proposed shift would also allow Australia more competition at the provincial level.
Super Rugby's current broadcast deal ends in 2020, with SANZAAR understood to be in discussions about its future as a competition.
Meanwhile, the Wallabies will meet the All Blacks in the next hour.
[Source: TVNZ]
SPONSORED
