Toronto Arrows set for debut on Major League Rugby pro circuit

Canadian rugby takes a big step Saturday as the Toronto Arrows kick off life in North America’s pro circuit.

The Arrows, a beefed-up version of the Canadian Rugby Championship reigning title-holder Ontario Blues, make their Major League Rugby debut in New Orleans against NOLA Gold.

Also Saturday, the Houston Sabercats are at Austin Elite Rugby. On Sunday, expansion Rugby United New York plays at the San Diego Legion and the Glendale Raptors visit the Seattle Seawolves in a repeat of last year’s championship game won by the latter squad.

The Utah Warriors have a first-week bye.

Canadian coaches have long lamented the lack of competitive domestic club action for their players. The nine-team MLR, now with a Canadian flavour in its second year, will hopefully help better prepare players for the daunting jump to international test play against countries with well-established pro leagues of their own.