SRU makes Super 6 approach to clubs

The SRU has revealed it is in talks with seven of the BT Premiership clubs over the possibility of bidding for the six franchises in the proposed semi-pro Super 6 competition due to be launched in the 2019/20 season.

The bidding phase has a deadline of 30 March, with the SRU planning to announce the six franchises on 1 May. There

have been sceptical noises emanating from clubs over the plan but SRU technical director Stephen Gemmell insists discussions with the seven clubs, plus others from lower divisions, have been “positive”.

The project will see single clubs or syndicates form a franchise, which, under the initial proposals, would result in £62,500 investment from the union for player salaries, a further £75,000 to pay for a head coach and support staff, with the franchise to match at least the £62,500 input per year.

There has been concerns that costs to clubs who decide to take part have been underestimated but Gemmell said differences were “not insurmountable”.

He said: “We need this to work because we can’t afford it not to, and I don’t just mean financially.”

The plan is viewed by Murray field as the best way to bridge the gap between the professional club game and provide a higher standard of rugby for players coming through their academy system.