Lindsay to retire from
International position

Wigan Chairman, Maurice Lindsay, has announced in Sydney today that he intends to stand down as Deputy Chairman of the International Board at the game's Annual General Meeting to be held in Sydney on Monday 26th January 2004.

Speaking from Sydney, Lindsay said

" I have had a long association with the International game stretching back to 1986. I have seen many International developments and enjoyed a period as Chairman from 1995 until 1998. I will treasure several memories, not least the 1995 World Cup which I believe was our game's greatest achievement.

By resigning from the Board, I am not, of course, leaving Rugby League as I have an important duty to complete as Chairman of Wigan Warriors. There is always a time to step aside and now that we have recovered in every way from the disappointment of the 2000 World Cup and can look forward to an International programme already designed for the next few years, now is the time to step down".

Australian Rugby League Chairman, Colin Love, who is also Chairman of the Rugby League International Federation today said

" I was surprised and I have to say sad when Maurice told me of his intention to stand down from the International Board. I consider Maurice a good friend and have a great working relationship with him. He has achieved much and I do not want his experience to be lost to the International game particularly at a time when we are discussing a future World Cup. His experience from the 1995 tournament is invaluable and it is something I intend to raise when the countries meet on Monday for the Federations Annual General Meeting."