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Durban - Jake White has suggested South African teams could ditch Super Rugby in favour of a tournament with English teams.
WIN: A legendary rugby experience!
Following the Sharks director of rugby's team's 23-15 loss against Aviva Premiership log-leaders Saracens at Allianz Park, White told the BBC website that the two countries' similar time-zones, lack of factors such as jet-lag and the financial benefits made logistical sense.
"Maybe this is the sign of things to come," White said.
"It's an overnight flight, and we'll be back at work on Monday afternoon after playing a team in England."
Speaking at a time when the Heineken Cup has come under fire from English and French clubs, White suggested a possible tournament merging English and South African teams as an alternative in the future.
"Logistically, to fit in an extra tournament against South African sides will be a bit tough, but maybe that can happen in the future.
"And for now there's nothing wrong with now and then having southern hemisphere club sides against northern hemisphere club sides. Maybe here [England] can be a home from home. I'm sure there are exciting times ahead."
White said the strong contingent of rugby supporting South African ex-pats in England added to the viability of the idea.
"I'm sure they're going to enjoy some of the players they have supported as young kids playing in this country."
HAVE YOUR SAY: With SA sharing equal revenue with Aus and NZ from Super Rugby, despite raising the lion's share of funds from broadcasting deals, advertising and gate receipts, and the possible financial benefits, is Jake White right?
Send your thoughts to Sport24 or login to Sport24's forum to join the debate!
WIN: A legendary rugby experience!
Following the Sharks director of rugby's team's 23-15 loss against Aviva Premiership log-leaders Saracens at Allianz Park, White told the BBC website that the two countries' similar time-zones, lack of factors such as jet-lag and the financial benefits made logistical sense.
"Maybe this is the sign of things to come," White said.
"It's an overnight flight, and we'll be back at work on Monday afternoon after playing a team in England."
Speaking at a time when the Heineken Cup has come under fire from English and French clubs, White suggested a possible tournament merging English and South African teams as an alternative in the future.
"Logistically, to fit in an extra tournament against South African sides will be a bit tough, but maybe that can happen in the future.
"And for now there's nothing wrong with now and then having southern hemisphere club sides against northern hemisphere club sides. Maybe here [England] can be a home from home. I'm sure there are exciting times ahead."
White said the strong contingent of rugby supporting South African ex-pats in England added to the viability of the idea.
"I'm sure they're going to enjoy some of the players they have supported as young kids playing in this country."
HAVE YOUR SAY: With SA sharing equal revenue with Aus and NZ from Super Rugby, despite raising the lion's share of funds from broadcasting deals, advertising and gate receipts, and the possible financial benefits, is Jake White right?
Send your thoughts to Sport24 or login to Sport24's forum to join the debate!
