Premiership Rugby Semi-Finals | Coaches on Rugby Union Weekly
News Directory 3 reports that Premiership Rugby is at a crossroads, with experts debating the best path forward for the league. The central question: Should the Premiership adopt a franchise model, mirroring australia’s NRL, to elevate its economy adn global impact? Key figures like Cheika champion this approach, emphasizing the potential for increased revenue streams and a more dynamic sporting product.He believes the league must adapt to survive, and he wants to attract sponsors, boost merchandising, and secure larger TV deals. However, coach van Graan stresses the importance of tradition, highlighting the Premiership’s existing strengths and the appeal of its matches. With breakaway leagues posing a threat, the league’s future hangs in the balance. Discover what’s next for Premiership Rugby.
Premiership Rugby Eyes Franchise Model for League Expansion
Updated June 6, 2025
Premiership Rugby could benefit from adopting a franchise model similar to Australia’s National Rugby League (NRL), according to some observers. The move could boost the league’s economy and overall impact, especially with breakaway leagues threatening the status quo.
One proponent of the franchise system, Cheika, noted the diversity of playing styles within the Premiership, highlighting Bristol’s approach. He believes the league has untapped potential to rival the NRL, aiming to elevate Premiership Rugby to a leading global sporting product.
Cheika suggested the Premiership should mirror the NRL’s structure to increase revenue streams.”The game deserves a bigger economy,” Cheika said. “It needs the league to get it bigger, more money in there so there can be more impact.” He envisions a central economy driving energy, attracting sponsors, boosting merchandising, and securing larger TV deals.
However, not everyone agrees that a radical overhaul is the answer. van Graan emphasized the sport’s deep-rooted traditions and the Premiership’s current strength despite recent challenges. He cited a match between Bath and Bristol in Cardiff as evidence of the league’s appeal.
“That experience in Cardiff a few weeks ago…was amazing.It felt like a Test match,” Van Graan said, recalling attending the 1991 World cup with his father. “There are so many good things about the Premiership.”
van Graan acknowledged external factors like franchising and rebel leagues but remains focused on his team. “All I can control is our team, and I’d like to think all 10 Premiership teams have done their bit to make this a spectacle in all of our different ways,” he said.
What’s next
The debate around the Premiership’s future structure is expected to continue as stakeholders weigh the benefits of modernization against the value of tradition. The coming months will likely see further discussions and proposals aimed at securing the league’s long-term success.