The Force awakens: Dumped Super Rugby side brought back for new comp

The Western Force will return to Super Rugby in July after the club’s owner Andrew Forrest officially accepted Rugby Australia’s invitation on Wednesday.

Removed from Super Rugby in 2017, the Force were set to lead the breakaway Global Rapid Rugby tournament this season before the coronavirus pandemic shut down all competition.

Forrest said their involvement in what looms as a five-team tournament was in the best interests of “rugby in Perth and in Australia to ensure the game flourishes”.

“My views on the mismanagement of the game under the previous Rugby Australia administration are well known and remain steadfast. Change is imperative at the top for rugby to thrive long term,” he said.

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“I am prepared to help out RA and new Chair Hamish McLennan in a time of crisis, for the good of the sport.

“Rugby Australia cannot afford to miss this opportunity to restructure and reinvent every aspect of the game – its governance, cost structure, rules, competition construct, partnerships with broadcasters, commitment to grassroots and, most importantly, engagement with the fans.

“I developed and launched Global Rapid Rugby across the Asia Pacific region to prove how rugby can be played – fun for the players, fast moving, high scoring and always entertaining.

“The Australian sporting public deserves to see more of that style of rugby. A game which keeps up with the times and is not mired in a myriad of laws. A game which returns rugby to its former national prominence and international appeal. A game that will be embraced by the Asia Pacific region as relevant, culture strengthening and entertaining.

“Until I see evidence that reinvention is at the core of any strategic plan RA comes up with, it will be difficult to commit to a long-term investment.”

While a five-team tournament seems most likely, should ‘Phase Three’ of the government’s attempt to make Australia safe again include opening travel to New Zealand, a Trans-Tasman competition could also happen, with the five Kiwi Super Rugby teams linking up with the now five Aussie franchises.

- With AAP