smh.com.au
Herbert: 2025 Super Rugby Season Best Ever
Rugby Australia chair Daniel Herbert declares the 2025 Super Rugby season the best ever, citing record-high average points per game and narrow winning margins, along with improved skill and competitiveness across all teams, particularly the three Australian teams currently in the top five.
- What specific statistical evidence supports Herbert's claim that the 2025 Super Rugby season is the best ever?
- Rugby Australia chair Daniel Herbert claims the 2025 Super Rugby season showcases the best skill, entertainment, and competitiveness in the competition's 30-year history, citing the highest average points per game and narrowest average winning margins ever recorded. Three Australian teams are in the top five, a feat achieved only twice before.
- How does the even distribution of talent and improved coaching in Australian teams contribute to Herbert's assessment of the competition?
- Herbert's assertion is based on statistical evidence of high scoring and close matches, along with his observation of improved skill and attacking play across all teams. He contrasts this with past seasons, highlighting specific examples of strong teams but arguing that the current evenness and consistent high-skill level are unprecedented.
- What are the potential long-term implications of the improved competitiveness and skill level in Super Rugby, considering current lower crowd numbers?
- Herbert's assessment suggests a potential shift in Super Rugby's competitive landscape, with improved coaching and talent distribution in Australia contributing to the rise of Australian teams. This could lead to increased fan engagement and long-term financial stability for the competition, although crowd numbers currently remain low.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative is heavily framed around Herbert's positive assessment. The headline and introduction immediately present his strong opinion, setting the tone for the rest of the piece. While counterarguments are mentioned, they are presented as minor quibbles rather than substantial challenges to Herbert's claim. The use of phrases like "all-time high" and "best ever" significantly influences the reader's perception.
Language Bias
The language used is largely positive and enthusiastic, reflecting Herbert's viewpoint. Words like "phenomenal," "breathtaking," and "brilliant" are used frequently to describe the rugby, potentially creating a more biased view than a neutral description might offer. The use of "big call" to describe Herbert's assessment hints at potential controversy, but also frames his statement as significant and impactful.
Bias by Omission
The analysis focuses heavily on the positive aspects of Super Rugby, particularly the Australian teams' performance. Counterpoints from fans of underperforming teams or perspectives on potential negative impacts of the Rebels' shutdown are mentioned but not deeply explored. The article omits discussion of financial aspects and the long-term sustainability of the competition's current success.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic view of the competition's history, contrasting the current season with past highlights without a nuanced comparison of overall quality or competitiveness across all seasons. It frames the current season as unequivocally 'the best ever' without fully acknowledging the subjective nature of such a claim.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the improved competitiveness and skill level in Super Rugby, leading to increased entertainment and potentially higher revenue generation. This positive impact on the professional rugby landscape can contribute to decent work and economic growth for players, coaches, and associated industries.