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Peter Jackson has reported that Six Nations organisers are considering introducing a system of promotion and relegation between the Championship and the European Nations Cup
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Six Nations chiefs have dismissed any such calls for a number of years
Writing in The Rugby Paper, Peter Jackson has reported that Six Nations organisers are considering introducing a system of promotion and relegation between the Championship and the European Nations Cup.
The idea had been rubbished previously, however, given Georgia’s performance at the World Cup, and Italy’s inability to fully capitalise on their inclusion in the Championship over a sustained period, tournament organisers have come under renewed pressure to consider adopting a system of relegation.
Wales and Scotland are thought to be leading the campaign to completely overhaul the Six Nations, with a source telling Jackson,
“Questions are being asked that challenge the status quo. Now, at last, they are going to take a serious look at giving the best countries outside the Six Nations the chance of being allowed in.”
However, despite widespread support among fans, those calling for change are likely to face opposition from the established order.
Reports of an entire Six Nations Championship overhaul though began after Bill Beaumont recently suggested scheduling the tournament in April rather than February as part of a future global calendar.
Not only that, but according to Jackson, organisers are also considering the introduction of bonus points. However, it is the system of promotion and relegation that will gain the attention of rugby fans across the planet.