25 Oct 2008

English "All Blacks" battle with NZRU over famous name

7:14 am on 25 October 2008

An English rugby team threatened with legal action by the New Zealand Rugby Union over its name, says it doesn't want a legal battle.

The side from Launceston, who play in black jerseys and shorts, have been known as the Cornish All Blacks since 1948, and are trying to register the name as a trademark.

The club's president, Tony Randel, compares his National League Two team taking on the NZRU in a legal battle as a David versus Goliath situation.

"It's being dealt with by the UK Intellectual Property Office which is not the same thing as it going to court. The last thing we want to do is get involved in a court battle with the New Zealand Rugby Union," he said.

Mr Randel says he can understand the NZRU's concern but doesn't think his team could harm the All Black name or brand internationally.