The New South Wales Country Union (NSW CRU), which joined three parties from the southern state of Victoria, two from Queensland and one from Western Sydney in expressing initial interest last month in running the franchise, has withdrawn its proposal.
“Unfortunately, we were unable to meet all of the key criteria set by [governing body] SANZAR and felt it proper to withdraw... to allow the ARU to work with the other applicants," NSW CRU president Bruce Worboys said in a statement.
The rugby union competition – which is played between regional teams from South Africa, New Zealand and Australia - is being expanded and re-organised from 2011 onwards by SANZAR, the umbrella body of unions from the three countries.
South Africa and New Zealand already have five teams in the existing Super 14 competition. The additional 15th team will be included in the Australian conference, but does not necessarily have to be based in Australia.
Bids will be due by the end of September and a final decision will be made by SANZAR in late October.
