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South African Super Rugby sides' future may lie in Europe

(Photo by Lee Warren/Gallo Images/Getty Images)

Reports on South Africa’s future in Super Rugby will not be ending anytime soon.

According to WalesOnline, South Africa’s four Super Rugby teams could be joining the Cheetahs and the Southern Kings in the Pro14 in the near future.

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New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the five NZ Super Rugby franchises are undertaking a review of New Zealand’s Super Rugby model to ensure the future success for teams and the competition on and off the field.

It is believed this review could have a significant impact on South Africa’s future in the tournament.

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Lawrence Dallaglio sat down with Jim Hamilton to rewatch the first test of the 1997 Lions tour to South Africa.

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Lawrence Dallaglio sat down with Jim Hamilton to rewatch the first test of the 1997 Lions tour to South Africa.

Super Rugby has become increasingly unattractive for fans and broadcasters alike over the years with its expansion into other countries like Argentina and Japan.

Several big names in the game, which mostly consists of former players and coaches, have called for an overhaul of the tournament.

The Covid-19 pandemic, which halted this year’s tournament, could also be the catalyst for change in the Southern Hemisphere.

With the regular season up in the air, New Zealand formed their own domestic tournament called “Super Rugby Aotearoa”, which begins in June. Australia are also busy forming their own tournament involving their franchises.

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There has been growing support for a Trans-Tasman competition in future years and if stakeholders get their way then South Africa and Argentina could be forced out of Super Rugby.

Travel restrictions have made it impossible for Super Rugby to be completed this year and this restriction could also have an impact on next year’s tournament.

According to some in the know, a move north in the future will be a much more viable option for South Africa’s teams with its similar time zones. Travelling to the north will also be easier for South African teams and it will also be financially more beneficial for all involved.

The one stumbling block for New Zealand and Australia to get rid of South Africa is broadcasting deals.

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https://www.instagram.com/p/CAw51hhApLA/

“We have always been very interested in South Africa. We like them and see them as a key part of our future,” said PRO14 chief executive Martin Anayi said.

“The tournament works well at the moment but could work better if you could add teams to it. So that’s one avenue potentially.”

Meanwhile, Stormers head coach John Dobson feels that change is coming.

“I’ve got a horrible feeling this cacophony is going to have some sway,” said Dobson.

– Rugby365

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R
RedWarrior 29 minutes ago
Records show All Blacks' greatest rugby adversary is now Ireland

Foster was literally whinging about the TMO in the Ireland series in the presser AFTER the RWC final. NZs whinging about the final itself was apparently picked up by Voyager 2 which was near the asteroid belt. What about the whingefest and crybabies after O'Mahony's legendary sledge (during the match) on Sam Cane?


I often hear talk about NZ players being poisoned or similar nonsense during the 1995 final. NZ boast that they are 'superstars' and 'humble heroes' on their own website. You gave England the same treatment in 2002-2003, calling them arrogant just because they beat you. They told the rest of us then what you were like, we should have listened. I would give as much credence to a NZ supporter disliking us, as I would to Krusty the clown saying the same thing. Let's just say your judgement may not be the best.


Regarding 2016, as the referee had basically let NZ away with cheating their way to victory via filthy dangerous play and fouling he was hardly going to pull Sexton up when clearly trying to stop a grounding. NZ always leave the boot or arm in to hurt a try scorer but that seems to be invisible to you entitles lot.


BTW NZ have literally being whinging and crying about Ireland since Soldier field. You are just very bad losers. We will be delighted to be shot of you on Friday. I hope we do so with a win, so that you rethink your philosophy of mocking opponents and spectators you've just beaten.


After the match last Saturday the internet was full of Kiwi supporters basically abusing English folk. Where is your national honour? Where is your national integrity?

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LONG READ England need to face a few home truths if they are to relearn that winning habit England need to face a few home truths if they are to relearn that winning habit
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