Share

Coles criticises Super Rugby format

Wellington - Hurricanes captain Dane Coles has criticised Super Rugby's new format saying it's unfair that New Zealand teams have to play each other twice.

The All Blacks hooker said playing in a New Zealand derby was similar to a Test and it wasn't fair that they have to play in eight matches like that during a campaign.

"Playing against New Zealand teams twice in one year is pretty tough," Coles told Newstalk ZB.

"Moving forward, if we want to see New Zealand teams win the competition, then playing the Kiwi teams once will be enough."

Coles said he understands that Sanzaar want to create a global product, but feels it's better to have a tougher competition than a larger one.

"You want quality sides in the competition to make it the best competition in the world," he added.

"Just keeping it simple is better. We don't need to over-complicate things."

Coles prefers the old Super Rugby format where the tournament's play-offs were determined by the sides who finished in the top positions on the overall table.

"Yeah, you play every team once, and the top eight qualify and you're away laughing," he said.

"That's the way I'd like it."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1271 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1469 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2239 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE