In a bold move to stabilize and invigorate English rugby, Bath owner Bruce Craig has proposed a significant overhaul of the Premiership, drawing inspiration from cricket's Indian Premier League (IPL). Craig suggests transforming the league into a collection of centrally licensed franchises, a strategy he believes will attract investment and ensure long-term stability.

The Current Crisis in English Rugby

The Premiership has faced numerous challenges recently, including the bankruptcies of Wasps, Worcester, and London Irish, which have shaken the confidence and financial stability of elite clubs. Newcastle, currently at the bottom of the table, has been up for sale since November, highlighting the financial difficulties within the league.

The Proposed Franchise Model

Craig argues that the threat of relegation deters new investment and leads to unsustainable spending. "The instability it breeds has led to short-term decision making, investor uncertainty, and, in a number of cases, financial ruin," Craig explained. Under the proposed franchise system, clubs would no longer face the pressure of relegation, allowing them to focus on building a sustainable and commercially attractive sport.

Implementation and Challenges

This radical change would require approval from the Rugby Football Union Council, which represents the broader game. While the leadership is open to innovative ideas, implementing a franchise model is unlikely to happen immediately. Licenses for the revamped Premiership could be time-limited and subject to review, providing a pathway to gradually expand the number of teams.

Future Prospects

The Premiership currently consists of 10 clubs, with plans previously in place to expand to 14 teams before the financial troubles of several clubs. Promotion and relegation were paused in February 2021 due to the Covid pandemic, and although theoretically restored this season, only Doncaster Knights met the Premiership's minimum criteria.

Broader Implications

Craig emphasizes that this proposal is not about self-interest but about addressing the perilous state of English club rugby. "It is about aligning club rugby in this country with the world's strongest sports competitions, almost all of which use an expansion model rather than a system that deters investment through the constant threat of relegation," he added.

Conclusion

The proposed IPL-style Premiership overhaul represents a significant shift in the structure of English rugby. By adopting a franchise model, the league aims to secure its future, attract investment, and provide a stable platform for growth. This innovative approach could set a new standard for sports competitions worldwide.