'We need to be in it': Canberra Vikings, NRC future in the air

Rugby Australia boss Rob Clarke confirmed the NRC would not go ahead this year as the organisation cuts costs and prepares for a domestic Super Rugby season to extend into September.

The new season and mooted Tests against New Zealand clash with the traditional NRC calendar slot.

It had been thought for some time the NRC was unlikely to go ahead this season. The competition has had its detractors since day in 2014, including in Canberra club rugby circles, and the coronavirus forced a change.

The Vikings had a four-year licence for the competition, with 2020 being the final season of that agreement. Officials are unclear if the competition will resume next year or be pushed into the "never to return" pile at Rugby Australia.

It wasn't included as part of broadcast deal negotiations earlier this year, with a push for a national club competition to replace it in the future.

The Vikings failed to win an NRC title in its six seasons, but played in three grand finals and helped unearth players like Noah Lolesio, Tom Banks, Folau Faingaa, Rory Arnold, Rob Valetini and Andy Muirhead.

"In terms of tiers, it's an important tier of rugby. Whether that's the NRC or a national club competition, I'm not sure," Scrivener said. "If there's anything going on, we need to be in the tent. Canberra rugby has shown they're very, very strong and have been successful. Whether that's Super Rugby, the old ARC, the NRC or club games.

"If there's anything at that level, we need to be in it. The pathway, club rugby and up, has produced a lot of good players for Australian rugby."

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The Vikings Group took control of Canberra's NRC licence in 2017, investing between $250,000 and $300,000 per year after a request by the Brumbies.

A group of sponsors, including NCG Services and Oatley Wines, helped fund the team and the Vikings Group had committed its investment this year despite the licensed club shutdown across the country.

There is yet to be formal Rugby Australia advice to clubs about the future of the NRC. "I'm disappointed to see it not happen because I think it was starting to get legs," said Vikings Group chief executive Anthony Hill.

"I know it had its detractors, but the crowds we were seeing was that the competition was gaining acceptance in Canberra. There was great local talent, there was good atmosphere ... I was keen to see where it would grow.

"Disappointing is the best way to put it. But you move forward and look to the next opportunity that comes. A bit of clarity on that would be nice."