THE PERFECT STORM
There have been ample predictions in the last decade which have claimed Super Rugby is doomed. The portents of doom have been such that every year since 2016, Super Rugby has kicked off with a strong sense that it could be the last competition.
Yet, here we are, starting another competition in 2020 and however much it may seem like Super Rugby is on the ropes and likely to tumble at any time, it continually finds a way to roll with the punches and survive.
But the pressure is intensifying and the problems are mounting to the extent that no one should be flippant about how things are poised.
Yes there have been difficult periods that Super Rugby has weathered but this time it may be different. This time there may not be an escape hatch.
The stars have aligned badly for Super Rugby as both Australia and South Africa are facing serious issues at the same time.
The situation in Australia is of most concern. The game there has been in decline in every sense for the last 10 years.
Playing numbers are shrinking. Fans are drifting away and the lack of success at the elite level is accelerating both the lack of new recruits and declining interest.
