Critics of hemisphere match selfish - IRB

LONDON - Widespread criticism of a proposed Northern versus Southern Hemisphere game has not diverted the International Rugby Board from the concept - instead, it has accused critics of not being interested in raising the sport's profile.

IRB chairman Vernon Pugh has been under fire from both hemispheres for announcing the game in Melbourne last week.

Acting chief executive Hugh Penman expressed surprise at the level of opposition.

Those against the idea were not interested in taking the chance to heighten the profile of rugby, or of easing the financial burdens of poorer nations such as Fiji or Samoa, he suggested.

"A match of this kind would help to provide much-needed financial assistance to countries such as Samoa and Fiji and a number of emerging European nations that are experiencing difficulties."

The IRB council had been informed at its March meeting that an unofficial match between the two hemispheres was being considered, he said.

After examination by a working party, the concept of a game between the North and South was agreed on in principle, subject to "satisfactory commercial arrangements."

"These commercial negotiations have been progressed to a satisfactory position."

Working party chairman Bernard Lapasset had been happy for the news to be released.

Lapasset had expected it to be welcomed by the rugby community worldwide.

"I am therefore surprised that this opportunity to heighten the game's profile and to provide funding to those most in need has not been supported," Penman said.

The New Zealand and South African unions are against the game, as is the New Zealand Rugby Players' Association and Lions coach Graham Henry.

Penman did not agree with suggestions that the game would disrupt the international season.

"There is no question of this match interfering with the work being done by the Sanzar unions to restructure their season, and no plans for an overall global season have been submitted to the IRB," Penman said.

"It is difficult to see that one match could cause the level of disruption that is being envisaged."

- NZPA