SUPER SERIES TO BE DISBANDED

There has been various information and commentary over the past 24 hours relating to the SRU’s announcement about the decision to end the current Super Series programme. Some aspects of the future direction of the professional pathway for men’s rugby have followed this morning along with a comprehensive Q&A with key senior SRU staff overseeing Super Series this morning in The Offside Line.

While the Heriot’s Rugby Club Board have been aware and involved in aspects of the consultation process leading up to this announcement, many practical details remain as yet unresolved in terms of how the decision impacts the club from a playing, operational and financial perspective. We are holding a Board meeting on the evening of Monday, 19th February and, based on what we have confirmed from the SRU at that stage, we will issue a more detailed communication about our future plans following this meeting.

The Super Series clubs are actively seeking further clarification on all these aspects from the SRU and released the joint statement, set out below, summarising their position.

“We, the current Super Series clubs, are obviously disappointed that the Scottish Rugby Union Club Rugby Board and Performance Department did not recommend to the Scottish Rugby Limited Board that Super Series continues. We do, however, accept the decision and look forward to competing in the upcoming Sprint Series.

“We were informed of the decision on Wednesday, 14th February. We were surprised at the lack of consultation through the process and the detail in what comes next, however, we have confidence in Keith Wallace and Stevie Gemmell delivering a transition plan that sees Super Series clubs supported through what will be a very challenging period.

“We have received assurances that there will not be a detrimental impact on the six clubs as they return their business and rugby models fully back to club rugby.” – On behalf of the Super Series Clubs.

The Heriot’s Rugby Club Board
16th February 2024