But a gripping clash between the most dominant rugby franchises on both sides of the Tasman has spawned hope new talent can invigorate the rivalry. The NSW Waratahs thoroughly spooked the Auckland Blues in the showdown of Super Rugby champions at Sydney's Leichhardt Oval on Saturday. Scrum-half Tia Hinds - imported from rugby sevens - and halfback Waiaria Ellis were breakout stars for the Waratahs during their seventh successful Super Rugby Women's campaign. The nail-biting skirmish also gave players on both teams hope for a merger of women's Super Rugby tournaments. "There needs to be more integration ... it can help Australian rugby, it can help New Zealand rugby."