Pacific Cup too dear for Aussies

- AP - Saturday, December 20, 2008 1:31 PM

THE Australian Rugby Union has pulled out of next year's Pacific Nations Cup because of cost constraints.

Australia usually fields a team of fringe players, called Australia A, in the six-team regional competition, but the ARU said the current economic climate meant it would not in 2009.

"There are alternative playing options for fringe Wallabies under consideration," the ARU said.

New Zealand Maori beat Australia 21-18 in last year's final.