Robertson relishes ‘unique challenge’

‘‘There are some great rivalries and great head-toheads, it’s just what we need.’’

Away matches will essentially be hit-and-run missions when the allNew Zealand Super Rugby competition kicks off.

While details are yet to be confirmed, the plan is for teams to fly in and out of cities on the same day on chartered flights.

Doing so wouldn’t just save money on accommodation, it would limit contact with others while Covid-19 remains a threat.

A kickoff date for the 10-week competition could be revealed on Monday, when Cabinet meets to decide if New Zealand will drop to level 2. If so, fans can expect the competition to kick off next month.

In the meantime, New Zealand’s five franchises will meet virtually today. New Zealand Rugby wasted little time confirming a 10-week home-andaway competition – which won’t feature playoffs – would fire up behind closed doors.

‘‘It’s pretty much the only [practical] format, really, if you look at it. The best way to do it is play each other,’’ Crusaders coach

Scott Robertson Crusaders coach

Scott Robertson said yesterday.

‘‘It’s a good format, we’re excited . . . we love the uniqueness of it.

‘‘There are some great rivalries and great head-to- heads, it’s just what we need.’’

Games will be played in empty stadiums and strict health and safety protocols will be in place, which teams will discuss today, and learn more about next week.

‘‘The contact, what does it look like? How many people [allowed] at Rugby Park? What does it look like as a high performance bubble?’’ Robertson asked. HURRICANES BOSS HAPPY