Sam Burgess Champions Hybrid Rugby as All Blacks Could Join

Former rugby star Sam Burgess has publicly endorsed the innovative concept of Hybrid Rugby, expressing confidence that it could lead to international matches featuring teams like the All Blacks. Burgess, who has made a significant investment in the venture, believes the format could attract fans from both rugby codes globally.

Organizers of Hybrid Rugby have proposed a financial plan exceeding $3 million to the Rugby Football League (RFL) in England, aiming to host an international exhibition match later this year. This initiative is particularly timely as it could serve as a precursor to the upcoming Rugby League World Cup, scheduled for October and November 2026, or take place shortly after the tournament concludes.

Burgess, a dual international who has excelled in both rugby league and union, believes there is robust potential for cross-code competitions. He stated, “It really works well; I like the concept. At a high level, I believe there could be an appetite for a cross-code game… an international style game played under hybrid rules.” His enthusiasm underscores the growing interest in a format that blends the best elements of both sports.

Hybrid Rugby aims to balance the distinctive features of rugby league and rugby union. Under its proposed rules, teams would adopt league laws when in possession within their own half and switch to union rules when advancing into the opposition’s territory. Notably, tackle counts would be eliminated, replaced by a shot clock limiting the attacking team to 60 seconds of play on each side of the halfway line.

The concept has already been trialed, with local schools such as Barker College in Hornsby and St Gregory’s College in Campbelltown participating in a hybrid match last October. Burgess’s involvement with Hybrid Rugby comes after discussions with Paul Franks, the organization’s leader, suggesting a promising partnership moving forward.

“I have an interest in it. I believe in the concept. In time, I believe it is going to go off,” Burgess remarked. He emphasized that the hybrid format presents a fair playing field for athletes from both codes and showcases their athleticism and skills.

The potential for international matchups, such as Australia facing New Zealand or even a combined “Australia v Australia” match, is generating excitement. Burgess suggested that nations like South Africa and the All Blacks could also participate, enhancing the global appeal of the sport. He compared the hybrid game’s innovative nature to the evolution of T20 cricket, which has successfully captured audiences worldwide.

Given the RFL’s reported debt of $800,000 to the International Rugby League, stemming from the previous Rugby League World Cup, a hybrid game could provide a financial boost to the English rugby league. Potential venues such as Wembley and Twickenham have been suggested for hosting this exciting fixture.

Burgess noted, “I think there’s an appetite for the English game, especially with rugby league having its challenges. I think it’s another avenue for the game and the players to generate some revenue. England would be a great place to do this.”

His sentiments resonate with Ivan Cleary, a four-time premiership-winning coach, who has also expressed support for the hybrid initiative. Cleary previously stated his willingness to coach a team if an international match were to occur, highlighting the collaborative spirit that could emerge from such an event.

The proposed Hybrid Rugby format represents a significant opportunity to unite fans and players from both rugby codes, fostering a new era of engagement and excitement in the sport. As discussions progress, the anticipation builds for what could be a transformative moment in the rugby landscape.