9 Nov 2009

NZRU open to selling of Super 14 franchises

5:14 pm on 9 November 2009

The New Zealand Rugby Union has floated the idea of selling off Super 14 rugby franchises to private interests in a move reminiscent of the ownership structures of English premier league football clubs.

The idea is raised in a discussion document being considered by provincial rugby unions, looking at ways of securing the financial viability of the franchises in the face of a tough economic climate and the flagging popularity of the game.

The NZRU chief executive Steve Tew says there is no plan for it to happen and they would want to keep control of the game, but they remain open to the idea.