The now-defunct Melbourne Rebels must have known about a supposed secret plan that has sparked a court battle, Rugby Australia says.
The governing body is accused of giving preferential treatment to clubs in rugby's heartland of NSW, ACT and Queensland by secretly enacting a plan called "Winning Rugby", without consulting the Victorian club.
The axed club is seeking $30 million in damages and to cover debts after it was booted from Super Rugby in May 2024.