12 Mar 2012

Taranaki still interested in Super Rugby franchise

7:00 am on 12 March 2012

The Taranaki Rugby Union says it remains interested in being a base for a Super Rugby franchise, but it won't be crossing paths with the New Zealand Union over it.

The NZRU confirmed at least one expression of interest for the four Super franchises it's seeking investment into - the Blues, Chiefs, Hurricanes and Crusaders, with the national union exploring other options for the Highlanders.

The Waikato Union hasn't put a bid in for the Chiefs.

Taranaki chairman Lindsay Thomson says his union's bid is more to wave the flag for New Plymouth to become a future Super base, if the competition were to expand once the current broadcast deal lapses in 2015.

Taranaki unsuccessfully bid to become an expansion Super Rugby base in 2009.