Unions will not be forced to merge for new competition

The New Zealand Rugby Union insists its revamp of the NPC to a two-tier competition is not a backdoor attempt to kill off provincial unions.

NZRU deputy chief executive Steve Tew stressed when the criteria for the 2006 NPC were released yesterday that there were no preconceived views on how many teams should play in the premier and first divisions.

Up to 12 teams have been suggested for the premier division and those who do not make the grade will be considered for the first division. No number has been set.

"If we end up with 27 unions across the two competitions then so be it," Tew said.

"This competitions review is not about forcing unions to amalgamate or disappear.

"Some unions will think they have a better chance of getting in or being competitive by amalgamation, but that's their choice. It's not what this review is about."

Application forms to play in the new NPC go out next month and unions have until March 31 to complete them. The NZRFU board will decide their fates on May 25.

Three parts of what is an extremely detailed criteria that have to be adhered to involve governance and coaching structures, and a long list of stadium requirements.

Six other pieces of criteria have been dubbed "assessable" and carry various weightings. The heftiest is financial performance.

- NZPA


NPC fixtures, results and standings
Division One | Division Two |