Michael Cheika Comments on the New R360 Rugby League
Former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has expressed his opinion on the proposal for a new rugby league, although he is not entirely convinced of its long-term success. The R360 competition, announced last year, has generated interest in the rugby world. It has been reported that up to 160 players from around the world have signed provisional contracts, including prominent players from the Springboks and England. However, there is still uncertainty about the league, especially regarding sponsorships, broadcasting agreements, and funding sources. The R360 league, presented as a Grand Prix-style competition, plans to have between eight and twelve franchises and visit sixteen venues worldwide. The league is scheduled to launch in September of next year and will feature the participation of 300 players. Although there are doubts, the league is considered a real threat by Rugby Australia and World Rugby. Phil Waugh, RA chief, met with R360 representatives during the recent British and Irish Lions series.Cheika has expressed his doubts about the viability of the league, especially due to the lack of a broadcast agreement. Cheika mentioned that the idea of something new is spot on and that there is an opportunity. However, he is not sure they can achieve it due to the lack of a broadcast agreement and more solid backing. Despite this, he believes the initiative “ruffles some feathers”. According to reports, Cheika, who was named World Coach of the Year in 2015, has also been contacted to join the league. He is currently out of work after having led the Leicester Tigers to the final in June. Cheika has indicated that he doesn’t see opportunities to coach rugby in Australia, so he has focused his attention on the possibility of coaching in the NRL.I think rugby seems ripe for a revolution.
Michael Cheika
