Squads have grown in number, so player availability would not be a problem. The "Big Four" in world rugby could fill stadiums across the globe if space could be found in an already congested calendar. When they consider the revenue, they will find a place!
Leinster (URC), Hurricanes (Super Rugby), Northampton (Gallagher Premiership), and Toulouse (Top 14 champions) could play a semi-final on a Wednesday and a final on a Sunday somewhere in the world and fill any stadium. Supporters could feast on the world’s best players.
The current football World Cup has opened the rugby world’s eyes to the availability of fantastic stadiums capable of holding huge crowds. I had the good fortune to visit the Dallas Stadium when it was opened and it was mind-blowing. If you sat high in the stands, a 50-meter-wide TV ran from left to right in front of you and down both sides of the pitch. It was far more than a pie and a pint promotion.
Three huge games in one week could generate significant global TV revenue. Sponsors, as well as tech billionaires, would no doubt be interested.
The All Blacks occasionally play Ireland in Chicago en route to a Six Nations tour. Every Irish person in Chicago wants a ticket – and usually gets one. We can’t hold sport back. The English and Australian Rugby League organisations already have a pre-season tournament in Las Vegas. Yes, Las Vegas – and spectators from the north of England budget sufficiently to go.
Let’s do it!
Elsewhere, the new Nations Cup for Rugby Union starts on Saturday (July 4) and there are some mouthwatering fixtures to enjoy. How about New Zealand versus France on the opening day, with South Africa against England 24 hours later? Check your kick-off times and don’t miss them.
Wherever you live, enjoy your rugby.
The Global Rugby Coach, Mike Penistone, is a globally renowned professional rugby coach based in Phuket who is also an ambassador for the Asia Center Foundation, a charity for disadvantaged children. For more information visit: www.rugbycoachingconsultancy.com.