New Zealand begin to suffer from player exodus to the wealthy north | Paul Rees


Disparity in income generated in Europe leaves southern hemisphere countries hoping for some form of shared revenue from internationals

It has been another British summer when the jet stream has moved too far to the south and, as the European club seasons start, climate change is being felt with the southern hemisphere shivering in a chill wind.

Australia’s capitulation in Sydney a week ago, when they conceded a record number of points to the All Blacks, would ordinarily have led to strident demands for Michael Cheika to be sacked as head coach. Even if there was little excuse for some abject defending, especially after how the Lions took on the World Cup holders in the summer, there is an appreciation that Australia’s problems are structural.

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