Rugby Union

Melbourne Rebels

Threatened Super Rugby sides show unity

The Force and the Rebels stood arm in arm.

"Everyone is working hard to try and make sure that there's a resolution, one way or the other. But it was great to see the guys united in their cause to keep Australian rugby's five teams.

Rebels stand firm on Super Rugby future

Confident: Chief executive Baden Stephenson says the Melbourne Rebels will have a competitive squad next year.

As it stands there are five sides and once the remaining two games of this season are completed, the Australian Rugby Union will belatedly announce one team won't return for 2018. The Western Force still appear the side likely to go.

Rebels players jumping off sinking ship

Deaprting: Jack Debreczeni of the Rebels.

The Western Force have continued their signing frenzy, but the future of the Melbourne Rebels appears increasingly bleak as the franchise's best players prepare to jump ship.