It seems the main reason this is important is it is an avenue towards the champions league and club World Cup. But does anyone see this competition actually being a success in and of itself? I really can’t see it succeeding. My measurements of success are around things like quality of football, crowds/fan engagement, profitability etc.
It depends. I just really hope the island teams take it seriously with recruitment. They need a good mix of core standout locals, a few foreigners to lift standards and add experience, and some exciting youngsters to break through. Good coaching/staffing and serious professional setups needed too.
But I worry a bit that teams chosen might be too young and focussed around development/building experience. For example I have heard the Fijian side "Bula Boys" may just be the national teams U23 side.
I'm sorry, but that's not going to compete against improved Christchurch United and South Melbourne sides plus an Auckland FC team chocka full of good young Kiwi talent. I fear that if the NZ/Aus teams are too dominant early on, the league will struggle to get off the ground.