Plumtree: Aussies need foreign influx
The Australians and SANZAR will disagree, but Sharks coach John Plumtree is adamant that the Aussie just don't have enough talent to sustain five Super Rugby franchises.
Plumtree, who caused a stir last week by accusing a weak Australian conference of bringing down Super Rugby, was speaking after his team had hammered the leading Aussie franchise and defending champion Reds 30-17 in a play-off match at the weekend.
He suggested that the victory backed up his claim the South African and New Zealand sides in the competition are 'way ahead' of the Australians and that they should 'import' more foreigners to make their teams competitive.
"I created a bit of a storm, I didn't mean to upset everyone like that," Plumtree said.
"I guess the stats and the points do the talking. I really didn't mean any disrespect to the Australians.
"But maybe they have to look at changing their [eligibility] rules to make sure that they are strong in every franchise.
"Australia has all the codes to deal with, and that's not a problem we have in South Africa or in New Zealand. It's not easy for them to generate a lot of players.
"I don't know exactly what the rules are but if you look at a side like the Force, they've been struggling for three or four years now.
"Maybe they need some foreigners to come in – I know it doesn't do Australian rugby any good in terms of their national set-up, but at the end of the day it's not all about international rugby.
"We've got a showpiece, Super Rugby, and it's really important. That's one of the ways, possibly, and there might be some others."
