The world of rugby is on the cusp of a potential revolution, but will it take flight? Rowena Samarasinhe, former chief executive of the proposed World 12s, believes rugby needs to embrace change or risk being left behind.
A Tale of Two Rebel Events
The World 12s and R360 are ambitious ventures aiming to disrupt the traditional rugby landscape. World 12s envisioned a three-week, 12-a-side tournament featuring rugby's elite, while R360 takes a more expansive approach, spanning five months and signing players permanently from clubs.
But here's where it gets controversial: both face significant challenges.
The Chicken-and-Egg Dilemma
Samarasinhe encountered a classic catch-22 situation. Investors wanted player commitments before backing the project, while players sought financial assurances before signing up. This dilemma, a common hurdle for rugby startups, underscores the delicate balance between securing funding and attracting talent.
Learning from Cricket's Revolution
Samarasinhe draws inspiration from cricket's Indian Premier League (IPL), which revolutionized the sport. Initially met with skepticism, the IPL is now an integral part of cricket's landscape. She believes rugby can learn from this example, urging the sport's authorities to innovate from within rather than waiting for external disruptors.
The Impact on Rugby's Calendar
World 12s aimed for a minimal impact on rugby's calendar, with a three-week tournament in August. In contrast, R360's global itinerary could significantly alter the sport's schedule.
The Challenge of Audience Engagement
R360's ambitious plan to fill stadiums in glamorous locations like Miami raises questions. Will rugby fans travel for these events, or will local support be sufficient? Samarasinhe suggests an enclosed tournament format could create the desired buzz, citing Los Angeles as an ideal launch city due to its appetite for innovative sports.
The Need for Innovation
Samarasinhe emphasizes that stagnation is not an option for rugby's growth. The sport must embrace change and avoid repeating the same formulas.
And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the game; it's about the experience and engaging fans in new and exciting ways.
So, will rugby's new events take flight, or will they falter? What do you think? Is rugby ready for a revolution, or should it stick to tradition? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
