After what seems an age of painful silences or meaningless statements from Sanzaar powerbrokers, next week should finally provide some clarity around Super Rugby's short term future.
Three weeks ago in London agreement was reached around the Sanzaar board table to cut three teams and reduce to a 15‑team competition next year.
As far as immediate decision‑making goes, New Zealand sits largely on the outer, and Australia's hands are tied. Hence why the Australian Rugby Union continue to say nothing worth repeating despite credible reports the Western Force are set for the chop.
A merger between the Rebels and Brumbies may not be out of question, any of which could well be followed by court action and player strikes.
Right now South Africa hold all the cards. Their April 6th general meeting is expected to provide the first major indication of whether Sanzaar will get their new‑found wish of 15 teams, which happens to mirror New Zealand's preference.
Meanwhile, the Highlanders crushed the Melbourne Rebels 51‑12 in Dunedin with an emphatic display of speed and skill last night.
Tonight the Blues will play the Force at 4.15pm, Chiefs will meet the Bulls at 6.35pm, Reds will take on the Hurricanes at 8.45pm, while the Waratahs will play the Crusaders at 6.05pm tomorrow.
