Rugby: Framework for Super series starting to take shape

The 2011 Super rugby season may feature a regional conference system. Photo / Getty Images

Expect a late February start to the expanded Super rugby series when it kicks off in 2011, a June lull and an August completion.

The broad framework for the new competition is taking shape, although in its debut year the new series may have to bend to fit around the 2011 World Cup held on these shores.

New Zealand, Australian and South African officials want to brief their provincial delegates on the details before they publicly deliver their latest Sanzar ideas.

It is understood the partners have agreed to a conference system in each country before the top six sides split off into a finals series. That extended schedule will mean Super rugby being played at the same time as the national championship, unless that series is also refined.

Talks on the future of the domestic championship are planned for Wellington this week.

* North Harbour are trying to coax Charlie Hore, brother of All Black Andrew, to sign on as first five-eighths to replace Jimmy Gopperth who is set to leave for Newcastle.