If you can't beat the New Zealanders, then sign them.
As Super Rugby considers major format changes for the next broadcast rights deal, Wallabies legend Mark Ella has called for an open door policy allowing players more freedom of movement between the countries.
Ella believes the restriction should be lifted, allowing wider use of New Zealand's great depth in talent.
He fears Australian fans will "turn off' Super Rugby altogether if the Australian teams continue to lose to their New Zealand rivals and that could have serious ramifications for Australia when Sanzaar negotiated the next broadcast deal.
Wallabies legend Mark Ella
Ella says that it is in New Zealand's interests for Australian rugby to be strong even if that means lending Australia some of their Super Rugby players.
New Zealand teams have now won 38 consecutive games against Australian sides and Ella says the Kiwi dominance is damaging the credibility of the competition.
Meanwhile All Blacks Ryan Crotty and Scott Barrett are the latest test players to re‑commit to New Zealand Rugby as Crotty re‑signed until the end of 2019, while Barrett has inked a deal through to 2020.
This week, the Blues will host the Hurricanes at 7.35pm Friday.
[Source: stuff.co]
