Would you watch the Wallabies play in summer? It’s more chance than you think
Sydney Morning Herald
by Iain PaytenFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A proposed global calendar shake-up in rugby union could see the Wallabies playing Tests during their summer months, a radical shift that would align Southern Hemisphere nations' schedules with the Northern Hemisphere's. Discussions are underway in London, involving key figures like Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh and World Rugby officials. The plan aims to unify the fragmented international calendar, moving the Rugby Championship from August-September to February-March, overlapping with the Six Nations tournament. This change would require major adjustments for teams like the Wallabies and All Blacks, who would need to return from breaks to play in late February, amid warmer temperatures.
The motivation behind this seismic change is multifaceted. For one, it could streamline the global rugby schedule, reducing conflicts between international and club competitions. Currently, Test players face long seasons with little rest, as SANZAAR's competition overlaps with European summer breaks. South Africa has been a vocal advocate for this shift, with coach Rassie Erasmus expressing support for aligning the Rugby Championship with the Six Nations in February. However, not all parties are on board—New Zealand remains opposed, prioritizing its domestic interests and All Blacks-first approach.
The proposed changes could also impact club competitions, potentially delaying Super Rugby Pacific's start
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/23/2026