Rugby: Impey denies board hopes

The New Zealand Rugby Union expects to appoint an independent board member next week.

The position was advertised several months ago, though the incumbent, Bill Thurston, remains eligible for re-appointment.

One name who has been bandied about as a possible contender is former MediaWorks chief executive Brent Impey. However, he told the Herald yesterday that he would not be joining the board.

Earlier this week, Central Zone board member Graham Mourie was given dispensation to stand for a fourth term. Hawke's Bay Rugby Union chairman Richard Hunt will stand for election against Mourie.

The NZRU annual meeting is on Thursday in Wellington.