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Sir John Kirwan declares Super Rugby "over," urging New Zealand rugby to embrace a return to "tribalism and traditionalism." This bold statement comes as the All Blacks legend stresses the need for radical change in a competition that has lost its luster.
Super Rugby, once the premier club tournament post-professionalism in 1995, faces dwindling interest, worsened by the exit of South African franchises. The establishment of Super Rugby Pacific has not revitalized the league, as financial struggles loom with teams like Melbourne Rebels facing bankruptcy. Kirwan points out that without intervention, the league could shrink from 12 to 10 teams by 2027.
He advocates for a redefinition of the competition, suggesting the introduction of three new New Zealand sides and a revival of traditional rivalries akin to those in the NRL. Kirwan believes the current financial distribution needs re-evaluation to ensure franchises can sustain themselves. He emphasizes the need for courage to adapt, highlighting how rivalries can draw larger crowds, as seen in New Zealand derbies.
Victor Matfield, also on the Rivals podcast, agrees that South Africa's youth rugby thrives on similar tribalism, drawing massive crowds. The future of rugby in the southern hemisphere hinges on these fundamental changes.
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