Over 180 players put their hands up for National Competition

The Australian Rugby Union (ARU) has received Expressions of Interest (EOI) from 181 uncontracted 1st Grade Club players interested in playing in the inaugural National Competition next year.

Pat Wilson, the ARU’s General Manager of Rugby said the period for EOI’s did not close until the end of October.

“We would welcome more applications from players. We have 127 positions available, and would be pleased to hear from all those interested in the opportunity to show their ability against the best.

“They will join 97 contracted players (those not in the Wallabies squad at the time) to form the eight teams in the National Competition.

“There will be about 20 professional contracts available next year for these players with the four Super 14 teams.

“This year’s Australian Provincial Championship, made of the four Super 14 teams, unearthed some new talent, so next year’s eight-team National Competition could unearth another Gregan, Latham or Tuqiri.

“We also have applications from players outside NSW and Queensland and overseas. They have come from Victoria, Western Australian and the Northern Territory, the Sunshine and Gold Coasts, New Zealand, Scotland, Fiji and France.

“We could also see the return of some well-known Australian rugby players,” said Pat Wilson.

Mr Gary Flowers, ARU Managing Director, said that negotiations on securing a broadcaster were well advanced and a decision between the final two contenders was imminent.

“There has also been strong interest in being the naming rights partner from existing and new sponsors. The agreement with the potential naming rights sponsor for the National Competition will be concluded once the broadcast coverage is finalised,” said Gary Flowers.