New Zealand Rugby Union deemed ‘unable to achieve its objectives’

The governing body of the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZR) on Thursday issued a Independent report Which paints a bleak picture of the situation. The expert panel, commissioned by the NZR and the Rugby Players’ Association (NZRPA), which wrote the report, qualifies the union “Unable to achieve goals”He described it as an outdated organization, paralyzed by its own structure and unsuitable for the modern era.

“The New Zealand Professional Era Association is a large and complex undertaking. The structure it fits into was not designed for a company of this size and complexity.Chief Rapporteur David Pilkington explained.

According to the majority of 191 people interviewed for the report, the current arrangements “It results in a board that, on the whole, is not qualified enough to provide the leadership the sport needs.”. The report also questions the financial viability of the country’s elite rugby system, and questions the large number of professional players.

The union will take its time

Among their recommendations, interviewees suggested establishing an independent process for “Ensuring the appointment of a competent and effective board of directors to lead the union.”. The report also recommends establishing a “Stakeholder Council”to ensure that the voices of grassroots rugby are heard by the federation.

Its president, Patsy Ready, elected in December 2022, explained that the council would take the time to analyze this report, before… “Take into account all recommendations”.

New Zealand are scheduled to begin their World Cup campaign on September 8, during their opening match at Stade de France against the Blues (9pm kick-off). The New Zealand national team plays in Group A, which includes France, Italy, Namibia and Uruguay.