NRL Match Review & Judiciary Charges: 2024 Round 2
4 days ago | LeagueUnlimited Media
The Rugby Football League have confirmed their intention to increase the size of Super League to 14 clubs.
The governing body met with representatives of clubs to present the findings of a recent review of the competition?s structure on Wednesday. The results of the meeting will be announced on Thursday but RFL executive chairman Richard Lewis believes an increase to 14 clubs from 2008 will create a more balanced competition and more room for representative fixtures.
Clubs currently play 28 games, playing six teams three times and the other five twice. Lewis told Sky Sports? ?Boots n? All? show: ?If we can go up to 14 teams there is every chance then of reducing the number of matches played in the regular season by two. That could create opportunities for international matches but it could also create opportunities for more rest of the players.?
Changes to the promotion and relegation system are also being planned due to the huge difference in quality between Super League and the National League.
Leigh were promoted after winning the National League Grand Final last October but had little time to build a competitive side and are favourites for relegation.
One proposal being considered is the granting of immunity from immediate relegation from the competition by not promoting every year.
Lewis added: ?We are probably talking about no promotion or relegation. We are talking about clubs guaranteed a place in Super League for two or three years ? those details haven?t been finalised ? and not facing the fear of relegation every year and therefore having to make short-term decisions.
?They would not have to invest in players when realistically sometimes it is better to invest in facilities and marketing.?
Lewis insisted this would not mean clubs in the National League will be prevented from moving up to Super League.
He said: ?What we are really saying are clubs at National League level, as long as they have got the crowd and the facilities, they will have the opportunity. It will be a transparent system and one in that the clubs will know what they have to aspire to and, crucially, will have time to prepare.?
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Thanks to www.superleague.co.uk for another great article.