The International Rugby Board (IRB) have moved to quell fears amongst the SANZAR unions that a proposed North v South Hemisphere clash would disrupt their seasons.

In a press statement released today the IRB confirmed that their Working Party had agreed in principle that such a clash could go ahead subject to satisfactory commercial arrangements.

Hugh Penman, acting Chief Executive Officer of the IRB said, "There is no question of this match interfering with the work being done by the SANZAR Unions to restructure their season and no plans for an overall global season have been submitted to the IRB. In any event it is difficult to see that one match could cause the level of disruption that is being envisaged. A match of this kind would help provide much needed financial assistance to those Countries such as Samoa and Fiji and a number of emerging European Nations that are currently experiencing difficulties.

Bernard Lapasset, Chairman of the Working Party, was happy that the news should be released at this time as he felt it would be welcomed by the rugby community worldwide. I am therefore surprised that this opportunity to heighten the games profile and to provide funding to those most in need has not been supported.

The proposed game was announced yesterday by IRB Chairman Vernon Pugh but receieved almost instant criticism from the NZRFU who were angry they hadn't been consulted. Lions coach Graham henry has also aired his concerns about the fixture saying the rugby calendar was already too congested.

The IRB believes such a match will provide a unique opportunity to promote the game and would have massive appeal. It has already found favour with a number of leading rugby figures including the Australian coach Rod McQueen, who has descried it as a 'great initiative', and with the Australian fly half Stephen Larkham."