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The Board of the Australian Rugby Union has approved the establishment of an Australasian Provincial Competition (APC) to begin next year.
The inaugural competition will consist of Australia's four Tooheys New Super 14 teams playing in a home and away series with a Final in a five week June/July window from 2006.
The official sign off follows a meeting of State CEO's earlier this week in which it was agreed that a professional competition bridging Premier Rugby and Super 14 was vital to the high performance requirements of Australia's Super 14 teams and the Wallabies.
ARU Chairman Dilip Kumar says there is now widespread support for the APC in this format with the potential for expansion in the future.
"From the ARU's perspective, we have taken a vital step for the game in Australia. We are engaged in very positive discussions with our Member Unions and the strong sense that we have a golden opportunity here is appreciated by everyone."
ARU Managing Director Gary Flowers says a feasibility study will be conducted into the possibility of expanding the APC into a broader competition in the future.
"We will consult with all our stakeholders in carrying out a thorough feasibility assessment and risk analysis.
"There is the further potential for two Japanese teams to join the competition in the future and perhaps play some non competition games next year."
Mr Flowers stressed the title Australasian Provincial Competition (APC) is a working title only which is likely to change before the competition begins next year.
"Most importantly, there will now be more high quality Rugby for our professional players not involved in the Wallaby squad following the completion of the Super 14 season. This will also be a direct pathway for club players through to the national team."
Mr Flowers said the competition will be carefully managed to minimise impacts on club Rugby.
"We believe these extra high quality matches will provide a boost for clubs because of the number of players who will benefit from performance at the higher level.
"A significant amount of work has gone into developing the APC concept from a commercial, high performance and logistical perspective. Now the Board has signed off, we can begin more detailed work in conjunction with the Super 14 Unions.
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