League is not averse to testing new ideas

SPEAKING to people within the organisation, some of the points raised in today’s special report were challenged.

On the belief the Pro14 lacks the competitiveness of other major leagues, the case for the competition’s defence pointed to game-play analysis conducted by World Rugby.

Over the last 12 months, the game’s governing body examined matches across the Pro14, European Champions Cup, Gallagher Premiership and the Top 14. Using winning margins by 10 points or less as a barometer, World Rugby’s data stated that the Pro14 is right in line with the other major leagues: 50 per cent of games in last season’s Pro14 were won by 10 points or less.

It was argued that, although there are weekends when there are some pronounced results, they tend to balance out across the season.

Martin Anayi (below), chief executive of the Pro14, has previously stated the league’s desire to expand and strengthen it’s relationship with South Africa. League chiefs are open to further expansion – although wary of Super Rugby’s bloated format in recent years.

Any new South African additions would need to be top Super Rugby outfits such as the Blue Bulls, Stormers, Sharks or Lions – who all have a host of Springbok stars on their playing rosters.

All four of those teams are recognisable to fans and are well established in a proven rugby market.

Adding commercial value and making the tournament a better product to market to fans is high on the league’s agenda.

Potential moves into the American or Japanese markets – as suggested in these pages today – are non runners at the moment.

Touring South Africa has not been without its problems – Cardiff Blues endured a 55-hour commute to play the Kings there last season – but at least the time zone (South Africa are only two hours ahead at present) makes those long-haul journeys a lot more manageable.

The Pro14 may not be perfect, but the desire and openness to innovate, explore new markets and try new things is encouraging.