Wallabies centre Billy Meakes is urging Western Force fans not to boycott next week's clash with South Africa in Perth.
The Australian Rugby Union has copped widespread criticism for its decision to axe the Force from the Super Rugby competition.
The result of RugbyWA's Supreme Court appeal is expected to be known early next week, with the fate of the Force hanging in the balance.
Force fans are bitter at the way the ARU has handled the saga, with many people threatening to boycott Australia's September 9 showdown with South Africa at nib Stadium.
Meakes, who is a chance to make his Wallabies debut during the game, is urging disillusioned Force fans to ditch the proposed boycott.
"I don't think that's the answer," Meakes said.
"Australian rugby in general - we need as much support as we can get. I know the boys love seeing as many people at the game as possible.
"There's such a strong rugby community in WA. To see them not at the game would be a disappointment.
"I encourage everyone to get out there and support the boys and create an amazing atmosphere."
Another option thrown up by angry fans is to wear their Force jersey at the game as a way to protest the ARU's decision.
It's a move that has the support of NSW-born Meakes.
"I'd rather see blue jerseys than no jerseys. I think that's a great show of support for the state," Meakes said.
Meakes missed out on selection in the opening two Tests against the All Blacks.
But if the 26-year-old can put in a good showing for Perth Spirit in Sunday's NRC clash with Melbourne Rising at McGillivray Oval, he could earn a dream debut against the Springboks.
Meakes enjoyed a strong debut season with the Force, and he's hoping to play on with the Perth-based franchise next year.
But the length of the saga has taken its toll on the player group.
"It's a distraction that none of us want or need," Meakes said.
"Every time I get a second to wind down and chill out, it's definitely on my mind. There's definitely times I lie down praying for an answer.
"On the flip side of that, being in the Wallabies squad has been a good distraction for me."
If the Force do fold, Meakes wants to stay in Australian rugby in the hope of forging a long career with the Wallabies.
Share
