The governing body of the New Zealand Rugby Union has been branded ‘unfit to deliver’ in a scathing independent report published on NZR on Thursday, just over a week before the World Cup kicks off in France (8 September – 28 October). The report paints a bleak picture of the federation, describing it as an outdated organization, crippled by its own structure and unsuited to the modern age.
“The New Zealand Professional Era Federation is a large and complex undertaking. The structure in which it fits was not designed for a company of this size and complexity,” said chief rapporteur David Pilkington. The panel, commissioned by NZR and the Rugby Players Association (NZRPA), found flaws in the governing body’s constitution and governance structure. Former All Blacks captain Graham Mourie was one of them.
According to an “overwhelming proportion” of the 191 people questioned, the current arrangements “result in a board of directors which, on the whole, is not sufficiently qualified to provide the direction that the sport needs”, points out The report.
Among its recommendations, the panel proposes an independent process “to ensure the appointment of a capable and well-performing board of directors to lead the federation.” The report also calls for the creation of a ‘Stakeholder Council’ to ensure the voices of grassroots rugby are heard by Federation leadership.
He also questions the financial viability of the country’s elite rugby system, citing in particular the high number of professional players. NZR chair Patsy Reddy said the council would take the time to analyze the report, before “considering any recommendations”. The New Zealand All Blacks play the opening match of the World Cup against hosts France on September 8.
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