New Zealand Rugby will consider stepping in to bail out three Auckland unions after their latest request for a government travel exemption was rejected, NZ Herald reports. The move forced them to pull out of the NPC in a decision that is set to cost the provinces millions on lost player wages. Earlier this week Auckland, Counties Manukau and North Harbour lodged their third request to relocate outside the Super City in secure bubbles in order to compete in the remainder of the NPC. If the three Auckland teams can’t play again this year, questions arise around who foots the bill for player contracts.

Sunnyside-Clear-Roofing-Banner-Ad