Australia and New Zealand would form their own Australasian rugby competition under an alternative to Super Rugby being considered for 2016 and beyond.

Under one of three secret proposals being discussed among the SANZAR nations of Australia, South Africa and New Zealand, with input from Argentina, South Africa would splinter from the current Super Rugby tournament and form its own competition with at least six teams and, potentially, an Argentinian side.

SANZAR boss Greg Peters.

The Australian and New Zealand provinces would form a second grouping and potentially welcome an Asian side to their competition in future seasons.

The proposal would take effect when the new broadcasting rights deal ticks over in 2016. SANZAR wants to have a decision agreed by the end of this year to give all parties enough time to plan under the new framework if one is agreed.