Australia’s $$$$ to boost Drua’s Super Rugby bid
The involvement and support of the Australian government in providing funds to help establish the Fijian Drua in joining the Super Rugby Trans- Tasman competition, could provide that muchneeded thrust to get our bid over the line.
The official announcement of Australia’s support was perfectly timed after a series of meeting took place between the Fiji Rugby Union and New Zealand Rugby (NZR) last week.
The meeting was about Fiji Rugby’s final presentation focused on its financial support in trying to win the licence to join Super Rugby.
It is understood that Rugby House is now awaiting the outcome of their presentation, which was due at the end of June.
The support by the Australians also included helping set the platform for the Fijian women’s team to participate at the Australia’s Super W competition.
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs would not reveal how much money they are throwing in.
Funds
However, sources indicate that it is of a significant amount.
Super Rugby teams cost about FJ$14.5 million a year to run, meaning that over the course of just one five-year broadcast deal the two new franchises (with Moana Pasifika) will require a combined FJS$145 million in funding.
In replying to Australia’s announcement, FRU’s chief executive officer John O’Connor said the funding for the Drua would help them bring back their best players home from overseas, and retain their local talent.
“I think it was a very positive statement by the (Australian) government and DFAT about getting the support, the ongoing support.
“Not only for the Fijians in Super Rugby but also for the women’s game and for the growth of rugby,” Rugby Australia chief executive officer, Andy Marinos told Fox Sports.
Possible base
The Drua, who previously competed in the Australia’s National Rugby Championship, could be based in Australia.
“Well I think logistically that probably makes sense going into next year, but we just don’t know what the COVID impacts are going to be,” Marinos said.
“Part of that (original) proposal with Fiji was that they were going to be primarily domiciled in Fiji and playing some games in Australia and then the balance of their games in Fiji.
“But it doesn’t look like at this stage that the borders are going to be open and freedom of movement is going to happen.
“So we would more than likely see the location of a Fijian team in Australia playing out of Queensland or down in New South Wales,” Marinos told Fox Sports.