Tuesday’s rugby news has the ARU’s money problems, the fans called upon, Beale affected by contract talks and Cruden’s injury confirmed.
[one_half last=”no”]
Massive losses for ARU
The ARU has announced a $6.3 million loss for 2014 in its annual report released yesterday. The report tried to emphasise that the ARU had been focused on building for the future of the game through investing $3.7 million in direct grants to member unions and $4.3 million in funding for the delivery of national programs.
ARU chairman Michael Hawker reiterated this message, saying, “With our new broadcast deal nearly finalised, we’re confident we will have a secure financial future for our game. We see our strategy moving from providing financial security to judicious investment to grow rugby.” The ARU also reported participation in the game increased nationally by 12 per cent compared to 2013. [/one_half] [one_half last=”yes”]
Fans called upon for ideas
The ARU also announced it will seek feedback from Rugby fans and stakeholders to drive its next five year strategy and future investment at all levels of the game. ARU Chairman Michael Hawker said the process to collate feedback is already underway, with CEOs of Member Unions and Super Rugby clubs taking part in a strategy workshop today.
“This is a terrific opportunity for the Rugby community to work together and establish our priorities to grow the game over the next five years, drive deeper engagement with our fans and create elite teams that win on the world stage,” Hawker said. The ARU expected strong growth at the grassroots levels with the introduction of a new non-contact version of rugby – VIVA7s; along with the Sevens rugby at next year’s Rio Olympics [/one_half] [one_half last=”no”]
Beale distracted by contract talks
Wallabies and Waratahs centre Kurtley Beale admits contract talks have been playing on his mind. Beale’s current deal expires at the end of this season and he said on Monday he aimed to reach a decision on his playing future before the end of the Super Rugby tournament. “Hopefully we can be able to sort something out, because it does take a bit of a toll on the mind,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Waratahs have lost fellow Wallabies back Peter Betham to English club Leicester. The NSW winger has played two Tests and Leicester director of rugby Richard Cockerill emphasized of the signing, “He is a big man at 6’4″, a powerful runner with good pace, and he has been playing some good rugby .” [/one_half] [one_half last=”yes”]
Cruden out of RWC
Aaron Cruden’s has been ruled out of the Rugby World Cup, with scans confirming that the All-Black five-eighth ruptured his ACL last Friday. Cruden faces reconstructive surgery and at least six months on the sidelines. He started at 10 in New Zealand’s victorious 2011 and has now earnt 37 Test caps as the team’s first choice playmaker.
“It’s obviously hugely disappointing for Crudes and we will be supporting him as he goes through this tough time and we wish him all the best with his surgery and rehab over the next few months,” All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said. As emphasized yesterday though, the All Blacks have plenty of cover at the position, with Dan Carter, Beauden Barrett and Colin Slade all having experience at Test level. [/one_half]
