For the first time in five years, Australia once again has a national second-tier professional rugby competition, with the introduction of Super Rugby AUS — a significant milestone for the sport’s domestic pathway.

Debuting over the weekend, the long-awaited competition brings together Australia’s four Super Rugby franchises — the Reds, Force, Brumbies and Waratahs — who will battle it out across a four-week season. The condensed format promises high-intensity rugby, with each match carrying added significance as teams compete for national honours and bragging rights.

Super Rugby AUS plays a crucial role in strengthening Australia’s rugby ecosystem, providing a clear and competitive pathway for the nation’s leading club players and emerging talent within state and academy systems. With the conclusion of the National Rugby Championship (NRC) in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the absence of a national second-tier competition left a significant gap in the development pathway. Super Rugby AUS helps bridge that gap, offering players a professional environment to test themselves, gain exposure and continue their progression toward the highest level.

The competition also provides an important platform for coaches, match officials and support staff, further enhancing the depth and sustainability of Australian rugby.

DoubleTake Sports is proud to deliver broadcast production for the entire Super Rugby AUS season, working in partnership with our friends at Rugby Australia and Stan Sport. Through high-quality, nationally distributed coverage, DoubleTake Sports is committed to showcasing the next generation of Australian rugby talent and supporting the continued growth of the game across the country.