Are the IRB doing enough to grow the game?

Question

What can be done to improve nations like Portugal, Romania and the weaker teams of rugby to improve their standards?

Answer 1

I honestly think that it was a good decision on the part of the IRB to keep the World Cup's current format of 20 teams, to give the the smaller Unions a chance of qualifying.

I think it's evident from this years World Cup that the "minnow" teams have indeed improved a great deal. I would still like to see a "B devision" of the world cup for those countries who didn't qualify, something similar to the plate finals played in sevens rugby.

Answer 2

I think that it should all start at grass roots level , there should be more funding and development at the lower levels , introduce and expose the game to the younger generation.

Answer 3

The tournament has again reinforced the potential of the minnows and how more needs to be done than just obligatory gestures & promises following each RWC.

I am speaking from a Pacific Island perspective because this is where I'm from & what I'm familiar with.

The IRB ultimately needs to pump more funds into this region which will then mean the islands can look at creating & participating at regional & international fixtures.  

It is imperative that accountable checks & measures be implemented by the IRB with these unions so that these funds aren't squandered but utilised to enhance development, fixtures, test exposure and the overall quality of players, coaches, officials & administrators.

There also needs to be a review of the laws surrounding country/player eligibility as there are many dual nationals that should have an easier pathway of representing their island country if they are no longer selected for say the All Blacks.  

A representative of a pacific island union recently commented on how more money was spent on the fireworks at a particular Super 14 match than the union receives in its annual budget from the IRB.  These are the sorts of disrecpancies between the haves & have nots in world rugby!

The pacific islands are standing up & performing and demonstrating that they warrant greater input & attention from the IRB.

Answer 4

And also accept worthy teams to enter to existing competitions, like Argentina in the Tri nations.

Answer 5

Give them a format similar to the 6 nations. Let the lesser nations enjoy playing each other and that will definitely improve the standard.

Answer 6

Exposure and Funds. Those are the two main  requirements that the smaller playing nations need to grow. And the IRB needs to consider that they may want to grow rugby where the market is before wealthy American sports show up and try and convert the locals .