Chiefs could face European giants Toulon

[The InnFORCEr]

Last updated 08:33 28/08/2013


Momentum appears to be growing for a clash between European champions Toulon and Super Rugby champions the Chiefs, according to reports in France.

There has long been talk of finding the best club between the two hemispheres.

It appears powerful Toulon, the Heineken Cup champions with a star-studded lineup that includes new Zealand prop Carl Hayman , Jonny Wilkinson, Matt Giteau, and Bakkies Botha, along with new signings Ali Williams and Bryan Habana, is keen on the idea.

The Midi Olympique newspaper reported that February 2 had been sounded out as a date for the "World Cup of Clubs".

That coincides with a break in the French Top 14 season but would obviously see the Chiefs in buildup mode for the defence of their Super Rugby title which they have won for the last two years.

There is a complication with the proposed Sunday fixture in France coming the day after France host England on the opening weekend of the Six Nations. Toulon would me without some of their test stars.

The report suggested venues for the match include the Allianz Arena in Nice and the Stade Louis II in Monaco.

The crowded rugby calendar has been a major stumbling block to this happening in the past and organisers still need to get agreement from European Rugby Cup Ltd .

There is reportedly strong interest from broadcasters for the match.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/i...-giants-Toulon

[beige]

Didn't this get shot down already?

[chibi]

Cashed-up mega-club with imports versus provincially-amalgamated region? It's not like the old days is it? I reckon Super Rugby's got nothing to gain and everything to lose in this one. Should tread carefully.

[taylor]

Is it compulsory to be really old for foreigners to play for Toulon or just a tick in the right box?