Provinces see Silver Lake lining for grassroots rugby

Professional players have some concerns about a deal that's widely embraced by mostly amateur unions. (Credit: Deposit Photos)

Paul McBeth

Thu, 01 Apr 2021

New Zealand’s provincial rugby unions largely support NZ Rugby’s proposed deal with US private equity firm Silver Lake, which some say will shore up their finances and give them options on how to stem the tide of shrinking participation.NZ Rugby has been in mediation with the NZ Rugby Players’ Association (NZRPA), which dug its toes in earlier this year over the proposals.The 26 provincial unions voting on a deal at NZ Rugby’s annual meeting this month weren’t as perturbed by the prospect of outside money and skill...

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