[Photo: Stuff.co.nz]Derby matches will feature in the first half of Super Rugby Pacific as New Zealand Rugby and Rugby Australia revamp the competition draw due to the latest threat posed by COVID-19. Although several venues are still to be confirmed, the inaugural competition is set to be front-loaded with derbies in New Zealand and Australia through to mid-April. While popular with fans, the derby matches have proved to be brutal on the players. The draw may be released by tomorrow. The opening round is expected to kick-off on February 18 and the final is still set for June 18.

Source: Stuff December 22, 2021 05:16 UTC