The initial response to this morning's story that a hybrid game between the Kangaroos and the Wallabies seems to be mixed. Oh, I can see what's going to happen here. Purists on their soap boxes shouting about the game they love and know and failing to recognise any relationship or similarity between the two.
Give me a break, please! For one, how many players have jumped ship to move from one rugby code to the other? And these are the star players. What's more, they move straight into the national side! Same ball (as good as), same player types, same basics, similar style. Game on!
The first major instance of player poaching goes as far back as 1907, when Union star Dally Messenger was poached by the newly formed NSW Rugby League, and reportedly the crowds followed....and it has been happening ever since, moreso in reverse of late.
Why should the game go ahead? Sport is entertainment, and this would be a mouth-watering product. The game and the rules are close enough to produce a fair hybrid version. There is also a fair degree of intrigue to add interest. For mine, there is considerable bragging rights here, and Union probably has more to lose. Would there also be a sense of 'North' v 'South' / 'Private' v 'Public' School about such a clash? Certain to stimulate much debate around the water cooler.
If AFL can get 60,000 to a hybrid game with the Irish at the MCG, for what really is a trumped up game of complete invention, a hybrid rugby game will certainly sell out ANZ Stadium. No doubt.
And the codes need the money. Not sure the fans need any more types of sporting contests to add to the viewing schedule, but it is proven the fans will go. Anyway, see potential line-ups below and tell me you are not intrigued.
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