News

ARU rubbish cross-code reports

November 24 2008

The Australian Rugby Union (ARU) have shelved the idea of a cross-code game between the Wallabies and the Kangaroos.

Reports in Australia's Daily Telegraph claimed secret negotiations were in process to organise the game for next October.

Further to that the reports said the ANZ Stadium had already been secured to host the game, although the ARU were quick to rubbish such reports.

"We only know what we have read and heard and have no interest," a statement said.

"In any case, it is not the sort of venture that would require a middle man.

"We will have nothing further to say on the matter."

The paper, in an earlier report, had billed the game as a 'blockbuster' as well as a huge earner, for both unions and charity.

"The prospect of watching Matt Giteau taking on Darren Lockyer, Stirling Mortlock against Greg Inglis and the like would cause unprecedented interest among Australian sports fans," an extract read.

"The blockbuster will generate an estimated $15 million, while promoters have promised $2 million to a children's hospital."

The paper went on to report that Australian Rugby League (ARL) chairman Colin Love had agreed 'in principle' to the proposal.

But ARU chairman Peter McGrath had been unwilling to comment.

Promoter Phil Franks was, according to the paper, the brains behind the move, saying he had vowed to work closely with both the ARU and ARL.

He was to formally approach the ARU this week, but the response he is set to receive is not expected to be a great one following the union's press statement.

"I didn't want to speak to them until they got a taste of the enormity and benefit of it," he said.

"John O'Neill is the sort of man that can make this happen because he is a business genius."