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Extra World Cup proposal scuppered, but 'variation is needed'

Author
Newstalk ZB staff,
Publish Date
Thu, 28 May 2020, 2:08PM
(Photo / Getty)
(Photo / Getty)

Extra World Cup proposal scuppered, but 'variation is needed'

Author
Newstalk ZB staff,
Publish Date
Thu, 28 May 2020, 2:08PM

Former All Blacks coach John hart likes the sound of an international rugby tournament to help the game, which is in financial strife.

An unofficial Rugby World Cup has being proposed next year, with claims it could raise up to $500m for a financially beleaguered game.

New Zealand and other top nations would square off, just two years after South Africa dethroned the All Blacks in Japan.

The idea is the brainchild of Francis Baron, a former chief executive of the England Rugby Union.

However World Rugby has released a statement saying they will not pursue the proposal.

Mr Hart says the game of rugby has never been rich despite its strong support in New Zealand.

"What we're seeing now is a time for reset.

"The money we paid to players to play in competitions like the Mitre 10 Cup on top of what we're doing with Super Rugby is just a step too far. We've always been on the edge financially."

Mr Hart adds they have finally been caught short.

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