ARU gives all clear for Super 14 imports
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The policy opens the door for an international star to play alongside Matt Giteau at the Force. (Getty Images: Paul Kane)
The Australian Rugby Union (ARU) has lifted a ban which could see foreign internationals playing for Australian Super 14 teams.
Beginning next season, each of the four Australian teams competing in the Super 14 will be allowed to sign one "marquee" foreign player pending approval from the ARU.
The nine-man ARU board has also given the go-ahead for sides to sign a second "developing" foreign player who has yet to represent his native country at Test, Sevens or A-team level and would be eligible to play for Australia.
The developing player will only be selected for the Wallabies after three years of residency in the country, as per IRB regulations.
If either the Reds, Waratahs, Brumbies or Force choose not to import an international star they are able to sign two so-called developing players, but no team will be permitted to bring two Test internationals into their sides.
ARU chairman Peter McGrath says the injection of world class foreign players will bring added interest in the Super 14 competition.
"We're also confident overseas players will be excited about the potential opportunities," he said in a statement.
"It will not stop foreign Test players continuing their international careers outside Australia.
"However, the idea that marquee players might want to come to Australia is something we should allow our provincial teams to explore.
McGrath said the policy will open the door for talented international players to pursue a rugby career in Australia.
The ARU has also expressed interest with the IRB in hosting another World Cup
The ARU responded to an IRB invitation to member countries to host either the 2015 or 2019 tournaments.
The decision on hosting rights will be handed down next July.
