Neemia Tialata: 'It just means we'll get a week off'It's the latest sign yet that rugby union is treading ever nearer to rugby league blueprint.
The Super 14 has continued its evolution with governing body SANZAR recommending an expanded six-team play-off format for next year's championship.
Not content with the ELVs and 12 becoming 14 two years previous, it is hoped that the southern hemisphere's premier provincial tournament will become more competitive and shell much of the criticism that was pointed towards a unspectacular tournament in 2007.
The proposal sees the competition expanding by one week and will now be put to the national unions and major stakeholders for their approval.
Obstacles may arise with interruptions to the Tri-Nations and hosting of the northern hemisphere summer tours.
Next on the agenda, Argentina's introduction into the Tri-Nations and incorporating teams from Asia, Pacific and American countries.