Sunwolves set for Super Rugby axe

The Sunwolves are set to be axed from Super Rugby after four years in the competition according to a report in Australia. 

A report out of Australia suggests SANZAAR will be announcing their decision tomorrow (Friday 21 March). The Japanese team was expected to be informed of their fate via telephone on Wednesday as SANZAAR look to return to a round-robin format with 14 teams.

The Sanzaar partners Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina will not announce the changes formally until Friday, according to a statement.

It is understood the competition in its current format will run its course for the term of the broadcast deal, meaning 2020 will be the Sunwolves' final season.

South Africa are widely acknowledged to have led the charge to have the team axed, given the increased travel burden on its teams. SA Rugby holds considerable sway around the Sanzaar negotiating table given their partner broadcaster Super Sport generate the most revenue to the Super Rugby and Rugby Championship broadcast deal.

A Sunwolves spokesperson told The Australian that Sanzaar had asked the club to pay a participation fee but the club had refused.

The Australian also reported that no other club had been asked to pay the fee.