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ARU delays Super Rugby decision
By Dejan Kalinic
The Australian Rugby Union (ARU) has backed down from its initial timeline of 48-72 hours to decide which Super Rugby team will be axed.
Western Force or Melbourne Rebels are set to be cut by the ARU as Super Rugby moves to a 15-team competition from 2018.
It was initially said it would take just 48-72 hours for the ARU to make its decision, but the governing body has now distanced itself from that timeline.
"The ARU will undertake due process to ensure that both the Melbourne Rebels and Western Force are given adequate opportunity to present their business case before the board makes a final decision on which team to be removed," ARU chairman Cameron Clyne said in a statement.
"We maintain our commitment to reaching resolution on this matter as soon as possible, however the timeline that we initially anticipated of 48-72 hours will not apply.
"As confirmed on Monday, we have commenced a consultation process with both teams and will provide an update at an appropriate time."
Along with either Force or Rebels, two South African teams will be cut from Super Rugby ahead of the 2018 campaign.
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Latest Comments
The New Zealand performance in the return fixture in 2016 was filthy. A lot of Irish supporters were pretty shocked by it, viewed it as de facto cheating just to avoid another defeat.
Also shocked by the abuse to Ireland, captain, vice-captain and spectators after the full time whistle in Paris defeat, last match.
Sledging is sledging, but that happens during the game and targetting spectators should be completely out of bounds.
The Irish public used to enjoy these matches, even in defeat. Now they are necessary but unpleasant, because NZ apparently cannot accept or respect successful challengers.
Go to commentsThanks for the analysis Nick, thought provoking as usual. Couple of queries though, in the pic where you've circled Williams bind , I'm pretty sure it shows Stuart's knee on the ground, surely that's a NZ penalty? Also having had the chance to watch it again the All Black scrum seeems to improve after halftime, but before either England or the All Blacks replace their props. Not sure if that was the result of Tuipolutu coming on or some halftime tips. Either way this is only Williams second international season, so he'll be better for the experience.
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