Super Rugby franchises are praying New Zealand Rugby's plan to stage derbies to within the next month goes ahead, as they face ruin in the face of a prolonged period without rugby. Stuff understands that while Super Rugby franchises could probably survive this year without any rugby – and some are better off than others – even the clubs with the healthiest finances will go broke if the coronavirus pandemic extends into 2021. With Super Rugby shut down for two weeks, NZ Rugby is proceeding with its plan to stage New Zealand derbies when that period concludes. GETTY IMAGES Even if NZ Rugby's plan for Kiwi derbies goes ahead, they are highly to be played behind closed doors. Three Super Rugby teams are in self-isolation – the Crusaders, Chiefs and Highlanders – as the franchises try to limit their contact with the general public.

Source: Stuff March 18, 2020 23:26 UTC