The Fiji Rugby Union is aware of the plans underway to create a combined Pacific Islands rugby team in 2021.
FRU Chief Executive, John O’Connor says they would like to thank the New Zealand government for carrying out the research and funding for an $80,000 feasibility study.
“All we know is that is that there are talks and we thank the New Zealand government for being involved. They have organized a consultant to talk to the unions and that’s all we are aware of.”
Meanwhile, the Super Rugby teams have also welcomed the news and All Blacks forward, Akira Ioane says it will be a good pathway for the players.
“They could strive to be on their team and then they can play against All Blacks week in week out, Wallabies, Argentinians and South Africans.”
Under the plan, the team would be based in Suva, as Fiji is the biggest country.
It would also play some home games in Samoa, Tonga, Auckland and Sydney.
The bid for a team in the 2021 Super Rugby season closes in July.
