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New Zealand rugby faces a “pivotal year” in 2009 as it works with South Africa and Australia to devise a plan for the Super 14 tournament to take to broadcasters, the country’s rugby body said.

While the future of Super rugby is “a source of some concern,” New Zealand wants it to remain a “cross-border, fully professional, world-class competition,” New Zealand Rugby Union Chairman Jock Hobbs said today.

The three countries are debating proposals such as splitting the tournament into geographical conferences to limit travel. The current $323 million broadcast agreement, which bankrolls the professional game, expires next year and negotiations for a new deal will begin in June amid the global financial crisis.

“The NZRU is willing to explore all reasonable options but remains committed first and foremost to working with its partners to evolve the current competition to a model which better meets the aspirations and needs of those who play, coach, administer and watch Super rugby,” Hobbs said in a statement.

Newspapers including the Sydney Morning Herald and New Zealand’s Sunday Star Times have said South Africa may quit the tournament and play in European competitions. Without South Africa, the two others might consider adding Asia-based franchises, reports have said.

“Our preference is still very much a Super 15,” John O’Neill, chief executive officer of the Australian Rugby Union, told reporters three days ago. “Inevitably, you always have to have a plan B.”

Under the current arrangement, the three rugby bodies must detail options for the Super 14 and Tri-Nations by June 30. The broadcasters, which include News Corp. and South Africa’s Supersport, then have 60 days to respond.

The Super 14 has five franchises from New Zealand and South Africa, and four from Australia. South Africa and Australia are lobbying for another team.

“We are not in control of all of the pieces,” Hobbs said.

The three countries said last month they are considering Argentina’s inclusion in the Tri-Nations, the southern hemisphere’s annual national championship.

(Source: Bloomberg)