Rugby: South Africa will fight for new team, says president

South African Rugby Union president Oregan Hoskins wants the expanded Super rugby competition to start in January. Photo / Getty Images

Last week's SANZAR meeting in Dubai failed to resolve the contentious issues over a Super Rugby start, and where an expanded fifth team would be based.

South African Rugby Union (SARU) president Oregan Hoskins would rather start the Super rugby tournament in January.

New Zealand and Australia want a March start to the expanded tournament from 2011, but South African Rugby Union (SARU) president Oregan Hoskins would rather start the competition in January.

Hoskins says it is very tough because they have a lot of products at home and the Currie Cup rugby is very vibrant in South Africa. Hoskins has also indicated SARU is prepared to fight for the 15th Super rugby franchise to be based in the Eastern Cape, which goes against Australian Rugby chief John O'Neill's belief that it will be in Australia.

SANZAR must present its proposals to the broadcasters in June.

- NEWSTALK ZB