After three years of being in amateur limbo, Argentina’s Rugby Union, the UAR have announced a central contracting scheme funded by the IRB which will cover 31 Argentinian players who live and play within Argentina.

More after the break.

This is an interesting point in the professionalistion in what is Rugby’s last major amateur outpost. Whereas three years ago the Union almost went bankrupt, today it is far more schrewd in how it raises capital with support from the IRB. A case in point is how it has successfully negotiated with the RFU to have one of their two summer internationals in England to raise extra funds. A game at Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium will have a big windfall.

Where does this leave Argentina’s hopes of entering a big competition? This is the big question as moving to a professional set up was a key requirement for entry to the Tri-Nations. However, the ARU’s John O’Neill has created a storm by suggesting an expansion of the Super 14 into a 15 or 16 team competition expanding into Japan and the Pacific Islands.

Sources:

Planet Rugby: Argentina takes a step up.

keo.co.za: O'Neill banks on broadcasters.