Editorial: Bring back Murray

OPINION: Rugby commentator Murray Mexted may not be everyone's cup of tea, but at least he is a man who speaks his mind without fear nor favour.

The problem with Mr Mexted has traditionally been the peculiar workings of that mind, and the direct connection between it and his mouth.

Indeed, some of his thoughts arguably cross the fine line between profound and puzzling and they have been immortalised in a number of internet pages devoted to his greatest quotes.

Mr Mexted lives in a democracy and he has the inalienable right to freedom of expression.

That freedom of expression has landed him in hot water with his employer Sky TV.

The former All Black says he has been suspended from Sky's commentary team because he has openly criticised the New Zealand Rugby Union's decision to reduce the teams in the Air New Zealand Cup from 14 down to 10.

His employer, according to Mr Mexted, has pointed out that the NZRU is a commercial partner of Sky's and that he should "refrain from being critical."

Mr Mexted, who played 34 tests as an All Black and is one of the country's most experienced television commentators, believes the decision to cut four teams out of the top tier of provincial rugby will damage the game. It is clearly a valid opinion and one shared by many in the rugby community. Indeed, the NZRU has faced bitter criticism from within its own ranks for the move and the debate has been widely publicised.

Mr Mexted invested most of his life in the game, either as a player or an observer. The way he expresses his insights may aggravate some, but there is no doubt he knows his rugby. It doesn't take a genius to work out that reducing the number of teams in the top flight runs the risk of hurting the game. It will be a huge blow for rugby supporters in the regions that are cut and will reduce opportunities for young talent to emerge.

Sky's position seems odd. The NZRU must be realistic enough to realise cutting the teams would not win it any popularity contests, and that flak was likely from all directions. For Sky management to think it has to step in as the union's guardian angel seems naive.

It has placed Mr Mexted in a difficult position. As a sports broadcaster he is employed to express his opinion about the game he specialises in. Being forbidden from criticising major structural changes to the sport undermines his credibility and therefore that of the broadcaster he works for. He was right to go public to protect his reputation. It is a principled stance and one that will enhance his credibility as a pundit.

Hopefully Sky will see sense and Mr Mexted's profound thoughts – whether you agree with them or not – will be available for sharing with both his fans and his detractors at the next opportunity.

- © Fairfax NZ News