Will's Word: Who is really going to take on Moana Pasifika?

Look let's be honest we all wanted Moana Pasifika to succeed.

The idea behind it made sense. A team that showcased the best Pacific talent, celebrated our culture, and gave young players something to aspire to. On that front, Moana Pasifika has achieved a lot.

But the uncomfortable question we need to ask this week, as a decision looms over the franchise's future, is whether we're trying to save an idea or trying to save a business.

Because as more details emerge, we're learning just how deep Moana's financial issues run, and how long they've been known. This wasn't a sudden collapse. The team is millions of dollars in the red.

So a few months ago, if you'd asked whether Moana Pasifika should survive, you'd rightfully be blasted for suggesting otherwise. Today, I reckon more people are quietly asking at what point we stop pumping money into a tough business case?

And perhaps that's where all the trouble stems from. There seemed to be a belief that because the concept was noble, because the mission mattered, that the economics would eventually sort themselves out. They didn't.

Don't get me wrong. If there's a credible bidder, if Sāmoa, Tonga, private investors, or a consortium can put forward a genuinely sustainable plan, then absolutely save it. Losing Moana Pasifika would be a real tragedy.

But we owe it to everyone involved, to be honest about whether the appetite, and the money, is actually there, or whether we're just delaying the same hard conversation a second time.

Moana Pasifika players celebrate their win over the ACT Brumbies in Canberra, with playmaker Patrick Pellegrini, left, scoring two tries. Saturday's match ended their Super Rugby Pacific campaign on a high in what could be the franchise's final match. Photo/Facebook