If you believe this - I have a bridge to sell you

"Top international players could sign huge deals to play in what is being described as ‘rugby’s version of the IPL’, according to reports.

The competition could make its debut in the United States of America in 2026 with South Africa’s leading rugby agents signing contracts with the unnamed organisers as talks ramp up.

This is according to a report by South African newspaper Rapport who state that several agents confirmed efforts are being made to launch a new tournament that would take on a similar form to that of cricket’s Indian Premier League.

Rugby’s IPL
However, there are concerns that the competition could force players to choose between featuring in the tournament or playing international rugby for their country.

“The plan is to contract around 280 men’s players worldwide and around 140 women’s players for rugby’s version of the IPL,” a source told the publication.

“They’re talking about starting salaries as high as $900,000. An effort is being made to get some of the world’s top players to sign contracts.”

Camquin wrote: Spotted on the Quins message board. https://www.planetrugby.com/news/mega-deals-await-top-springboks-for-rugbys-version-of-the-ipl-as-plans-for-usa-2026-emerge "Top international players could sign huge deals to play in what is being described as ‘rugby’s version of the IPL’, according to reports. The competition could make its debut in the United States of America in 2026 with South Africa’s leading rugby agents signing contracts with the unnamed organisers as talks ramp up. This is according to a report by South African newspaper Rapport who state that several agents confirmed efforts are being made to launch a new tournament that would take on a similar form to that of cricket’s Indian Premier League. Rugby’s IPL However, there are concerns that the competition could force players to choose between featuring in the tournament or playing international rugby for their country. “The plan is to contract around 280 men’s players worldwide and around 140 women’s players for rugby’s version of the IPL,” a source told the publication. “They’re talking about starting salaries as high as $900,000. An effort is being made to get some of the world’s top players to sign contracts.”

420 players at say, $50,000 comes to $21,000,000. 

Camquin wrote: Story seems to have surfaced in today's Telegraph. Plans for a the circus to move from town to town, with multiple matches over a weekend at one stadium. Still all hinges on getting a TV deal, which may rely on the stars being permitted to play international rugby.

The Rugby Paper references other sources such as "newspapers" so their article is just a rehash but mentions 280 players worldwide.