World Series Rugby a step closer

Andrew Forrest’s planned Asia Pacific-focused rugby competition is a step closer to reality, after the World Rugby executive committee recommended approval of the series.

The proposed competition includes the Western Force, which was controversially axed from the Super Rugby competition last year, and seven international teams to form the World Series Rugby.

The World Rugby council is expected to meet in November to make a final decision on the competition.

If approved, the competition will begin in March and is expected to include two sides from Japan, and one from Hong Kong, Singapore, Fiji, New Zealand and Western Sydney.

 “This concept is about developing and growing the great game of rugby union in an untapped region, with the support of local communities,” Mr Forrest said.

“We have worked closely with World Rugby, Rugby Australia, Hong Kong Rugby Union and New Zealand Rugby for several months to get this over the line.

“We are in the final stretch and I remain confident rugby fans and players in our part of the world will have an innovative new competition to get behind in 2019.”

Rugby Australia chief executive Raelene Castle said the organisation had worked closely with Mr Forrest to develop the concept.

“There is a lot of detail to work through and we are looking forward to continuing this positive dialogue over the coming months,” she said.

The competition will be played across a 14-week season, with the top four sides progressing to a sudden-death finals series.