Maoris want Test recognition
June 10, 2002

Australia have declared that they will support the New Zealand Maori's claim for Test recognition.

The Maori, who play the Wallabies in Perth on Saturday night, believe they deserve fully-fledged Test status after notching 12 victories over international sides in an eight year run of success.

Wallaby coach Eddie Jones dismissed the claim last night, saying New Zealand had only one Test team and they went by the name of the All Blacks.

But Australian Rugby Union managing director John O'Neill has given an undertaking to speak to the International Rugby Board about a possible exemption for the Maori -- if he is approached for support.

"It would be an exception fraught with danger," O'Neill told the Daily Telegraph, with IRB regulations stating that a Test must involve the national teams of member unions.

"The Maori don't fall under that definition, but equally we're sympathetic to the cause of Maori rugby. There is also a feeling among Australian players that they'd be happy for games against the Maori to count as Tests.

"Traditionally there's been a very strong relationship between Australia and the Maori. You would have to think through the ramifications of granting an exemption of this sort of nature to give them Test status.

"But I'd be happy to support their approach if they want to talk to the IRB."

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