Meninga’s 40/40 idea a vision of the future
KANGAROOS coach Mal Meninga has hatched a bold plan to revolutionise international rugby league in what he says could be the game’s answer to Twenty20 cricket.
High-level talks have occurred for what Meninga has dubbed “International 40/40”.
The concept would pit Australia against two international sides in 40-minute matches.
It was tested successfully when the Kangaroos travelled to Fiji for the first time to play the hosts and PNG in one 80minute match on Saturday.
Meninga is pushing for the concept to be a regular fixture.
“It is a genuine concept which we can take around the world and develop the game,” Meninga said.
“I like to call it a 40/40. It’s our version of the Twenty20.
“It allows us to go and play in different countries around the world and encourage two other countries.
“It makes it competitive and it doesn’t give us an opportunity to rack up big scores and it keeps both teams in the contest.
“From a trial and warm-up point of view, it’s ideal. It’s a hard contest.”
Meninga wants to take matches to PNG, Samoa and the Cook Islands before potentially exploring other international venues.
Australia beat PNG 20-4 and Fiji 18-0 in their respective matches. Fiji and PNG also played in Suva.
A crowd of about 3000 watched the game at ANZ Stadium in Suva on Saturday.
Meninga’s only criticism was the price of tickets, the most expensive about $75.
“We have to make sure it’s accessible money-wise to make sure people come and watch it,” he said.