New 12-a-side tournament on the horizon

A new 12s Rugby format is in the pipeline and is set to fetch around £250million in the next five years. 

The new tournament is set to kick off in August 2022 and will take place in England first and will be played in a round-robin format over consecutive weekends with each team limited to a squad of 24. Men and women’s competitions will be observed. 

“World 12s is a natural evolution for rugby union,” said Chairman Ian Ritchie at the launch. “We feel that this is a game for our changing, fast-paced world that can excite a global fan base in the way that we have seen with the IPL or most recently The Hundred in cricket. 

“In bringing together the most exciting players under the stewardship of some of the brightest rugby minds with commercial backing, we are looking to propel rugby forward and lay a positive roadmap for how the game is perceived for future generations. Early and informal discussions with World Rugby, unions, clubs and player associations have been constructive, and in announcing today we can continue our consultative conversations and collaborations with the relevant stakeholders.” 

Each franchise will be required to select at least two players from tier two nations s well as one international U20 player. 

“This is a truly exciting venture in the development of our global game," said Steve Tew, World 12s non-executive director.  

“We believe rugby needs a new, innovative, fast-flowing, and exciting concept, but one that remains authentic to rugby’s roots. We have assembled a strong team of rugby leaders with a wealth of rugby and commercial experience, and we look forward to the continued discussions with global stakeholders.”