Plans for a new ‘Super Eight’ competition involving sides from all over Asia have been put on hold until the 2015-16 season, according to UAE Rugby Federation (UAERF) secretary general Qais Al Dhalai.
Ideas for the initial tournament were drawn up in June, with discussions continuing with clubs and governing bodies throughout the region in the subsequent weeks.
The set-up would have seen the top two teams from the UAE Premiership battle it out with Bahrain, Doha and four clubs from Sri Lanka for bragging rights in west Asia.
In the east, four teams from Hong Kong and two each from Singapore and Malaysia would compete.
After talks between all interested parties, a decision has been made to delay any potential kick off from the original 2014-15 start date because of financial and scheduling problems.
“There have been a number of issues trying to establish this competition,’ Al Dhalai said. “We have had long and lengthy discussions to develop the ‘Super Eight’, and the feedback has been we need to delay the start to ensure our plans are properly developed.
“One of the main concerns from the clubs has been the financial aspect. At the present time, we [UAERF] would not be able to fund it ourselves.
“The delay gives up the chance to see if we can find a sponsor.
“Another huge obstacle to a start this season was finding room in the calendar. The schedule is already packed with the various leagues and sevens events.
“We do not want to force anything. We can now take time to redevelop our ideas.”
The UAE would be represented in the new tournament by the teams who finished in the top two of the UAE Premiership, which begins on Friday, September 26.
In 2013, that was the champions, Jebel Ali Dragons, and finalists, Dubai Hurricanes.
