Rebels
‘Let them fall over’: Rugby Australia director advised against Rebels bailout
While the Melbourne Rebels believed they had the full backing of Rugby Australia, a text message reveals a director privately advised colleagues to “let them fall over”, a court heard.
- Carla Jaeger
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- Exclusive
- Australian rugby
Not all states are equal: The secret ‘seismic’ plan to reshape rugby
Rugby Australia signed off on a plan that would explicitly back NSW and Queensland. Now Wallabies legend Phil Waugh faces a court grilling over it as the fallout from the Rebels’ collapse deepens.
- Sarah Danckert
Prodigal guns: How the Waratahs harnessed hunger of stars they previously brushed
The Waratahs have historically had their pick of the best young talent in Australian rugby. This year has seen a different approach.
- Iain Payten
- Exclusive
- Insolvency
Just $500 cash, $75 million in debt: The parlous state of former Melbourne Rebels boss’s finances
After a series of business failures, Paul Docherty claims he now has $500 in cash and no house, car or superannuation, along with a staggering pile of debts, including to the wealthy Myer family.
- Sarah Danckert and Carla Jaeger
‘It’s like they’re oblivious’: The fight to save a struggling sport in Victoria
A year after the Melbourne Rebels were booted from Super Rugby, players are leaving the state, and the home of the sport in Victoria is an unfinished shell.
- Roy Ward
Rugby Australia hits out at French clubs over poaching raid
On a day when RA announced a $36.8 million deficit for 2024 at its annual general meeting, chairman Daniel Herbert sent a warning to French rugby clubs.
- Tom Decent
‘Wallabies is our priority’: Test success the focus of Lions tour games selections
Ex-Wallabies in Japan are keen on playing for an ANZAC team against the British and Irish Lions. But the spots may be limited.
- Iain Payten
‘Playing a season under that was tough’: 2025 will define Australian rugby
As the Super Rugby season launches without a Melbourne team, players and officials reflect on tough decisions, and what they might mean for the game.
- Nick Wright
Why a Broncos legend believes two unsung converts will land on NRL radars
They finished last season in rugby union before making bold career gambles. But a Bronco great believes the pair have the tools to emerge as NRL stars.
- Nick Wright
The Reds now boast 234 Test caps. Has their depth exposed a problem for the game?
The collapse of the Rebels has given the Reds much-needed depth and a shot at the 2025 Super Rugby title. But has it also created long-term problems for the game?
- Nick Wright