A new directive has completely altered the negotiating process for Australia’s leading rugby players, requiring that each athlete must finalize their franchise deal before being awarded an ARU top-up.
Wallabies ranked within the top 32 players in the nation qualify for these top-ups; however, their franchises remain unaware of the top-up amounts, compelling them to offer significant financial packages.
Should they fail to do so, rival franchises are likely to intervene, leaving the ARU to contribute considerably lower top-up figures.
With the roster for top-ups reduced from 54 to 32 players over the past two years, ARU chief John O’Neill indicated that it is time for franchises to take charge of recruiting high-profile talent.
“The procedure now mandates that the player, regardless of their status, must finalize their provincial contract first, followed by those in the Wallaby top-up category,” O’Neill explained.
“In the past, the sequence was reversed; players went to the ARU prior to completing their provincial contracts.
“The new order requires securing the provincial contract first, resulting in a significantly smaller group receiving Wallaby top-ups.
“This represents a shift in accountability, more distinctly directed back to the franchise, necessitating they manage their operations within specified budget limits.”
When asked whether coaches might present their top Wallaby players with “unders” in anticipation of a generous ARU top-up, O’Neill commented: “That poses a risk, given we can’t predict the extent of our top-ups… we’re not a balancing item. It’s somewhat akin to cricket… we are ranking players, which is what we should have always been doing.
“This smaller group has been identified by Robbie Deans and David Nucifora and sorted based on their worth. Provinces are still free to offer what they consider fair and just compensation for Super Rugby.
“If you’re a Wallaby in the match 22, you’re looking at approximately $13,000 per Test match. With around 12-14 Test matches annually, at $13,000, it’s evident these top 30 players are well-compensated overall.
“When discussions arise about the risk of losing them to overseas opportunities, I don’t see a concern with those 32 players we’ve assessed.”
However, with propositions from international clubs and possibly rugby league, these 32 players will encounter more transparent financial figures during negotiations compared to what they can expect when dealing with franchises.
RUPA chief executive Greg Harris stated: “We recognize the ARU’s standpoint, yet we believe there are some issues still needing negotiation within the CBA currently underway.”
Buford Balony remarks: An obvious choice for the top player, David Pocock.
