Super Rugby franchises are bracing for a further financial blow, as the competition moves behind closed doors when it resumes under Alert Level 2.
With sides unable to fall back on ticket and merchandise sales under the revised domestic competition, the hope now is that exposure for sponsors will see them recommit long term.
With the financial strain on New Zealand Rugby growing heavier by the day, news that Super Rugby can resume under level two was timely, and much needed for the governing body.
But while rugby will be back on our screens next month, that won't diminish the financial burden for franchises.
"This is about representing the community more than it is about making any money," Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge told Newshub. "There isn't any money in it.
"It doesn't really help a lot. In fact, it helps nothing."
Four of the five franchises have told Newshub that they're hopeful of getting some fans in before the competition finishes.
But being without them for the foreseeable future means the only saving grace for sides is exposure for sponsors.
"It'll be nice for them to see their names up on jerseys and LED lightings… it underpins the confidence for sponsors," Mansbridge added.
New Zealand Rugby is wary the revised competition won't bring with it revised revenue for franchises.
But they aren't in a position to help. To put it bluntly, they're on their own.
"We haven't got any exact views on particular costs and being able to meet those" said NZR CEO Mark Robinson.
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