Could Japan become the golden goose of Australian rugby?

If rugby is to move forward in this country, an old business driver is now needed: “Let’s look outside the box.” In this article, we’ll begin the discussion of a proposal that would expand the game in Australia, with the added benefit of doing the same in Japan, New Zealand, and Argentina.

Controversy continues in Australia. Should you choose an overseas-based player? Is Super Rugby good or bad for the game? How do you develop your game and expand your financial base?

This proposal is not a panacea for solving the world’s problems, but a starting point for moving forward. I think solving these problems is what all Roarers and indeed rugby supporters really want to see happen.

Suggestion: How Japan can help Australian rugby

A Japanese club team should be added to the Australian Super Rugby group so it would benefit everyone in Japan and there would be no goodbyes. Japan will manage the appearance of the team, whether it is an existing franchise or a new franchise.

Japan should be added to the Rugby Championship. In Japan, Australia and New Zealand, time zone friendliness would be very attractive for both public viewing and potential broadcast preparation. That is, dollars. The Japanese TV rights could be a significant win for both Australia and its existing Super Rugby and Rugby Championship partners.

Samuel Kerevi. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

In return for being added to the Super Rugby and Rugby Championships, Japan agrees to release Australian-qualified players to the Wallabies to the same extent that they require the Australian province to provide players. This includes training camps, home internationals and fall tours.

Wallabies selectors must treat players playing in Japan in the same way as if they were playing for an Australian Super Rugby club. Australian players would then be able to play in Japan and earn the money they need to support their families while representing the Wallabies. Assuming many players sign contracts in Japan, RA and the Super Rugby franchises will be able to develop a wider player base from which to choose.

Rugby Australia may encourage some players to take short-term contracts or sabbaticals in Japan for up to two years. While this benefits the players, it can also have huge financial benefits for RA. Imagine being able to offload one of our stars and keep him for Wallabies selection while recouping his wages for a year or two.

This allows the RA to use the player’s salary for junior development or recruiting/retaining a promising player or group of players.

This could put RA in a position to prevent many players from going to Europe and the United States, which is their main focus for the future. This could take the form of players in that competition being ineligible for the Wallabies. Dispensation may be available to those who have already committed overseas, such as Will Skelton.

Will Skelton. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

how to make it happen

Naturally, significant negotiations will be required with Japan, New Zealand, Argentina and all other stakeholders, especially potential media partners. But this proposal attempts to give all stakeholders enough of a win to at least get them talking at the table. With the right attitude towards looking at the benefits for the wider rugby community, the proposition can be a success.

Roar editor Christy Doran traveled to Seattle with VisitSeattle.org to explore the city’s electric sports atmosphere, outdoor adventures and renowned food scene. Click here to see his latest adventures in the Emerald City.

Negotiations may mean at least some minor changes, but the basis of the proposal will certainly be acceptable to the stakeholders.

RAs can potentially utilize negotiators to navigate the process. Perhaps someone with a very strong rugby background but who can also handle the necessary political maneuvering. A final shock, if you haven’t figured it out yet, is to call out David Pocock, former Wallabies skipper and all-time great who is now showing the skills needed!