Expansion Options For The NRL Going Forward

The Possible Expansion of the NRL

The closure of Super Ruby’s Western Force has sparked a lot of interest into the expansion of NRL. Chief executive for the NRL, Todd Greenberg has made a point to strike while metaphorical iron is hot, signalling out Perth as a likely candidate. While the claim has been made, Todd has assured the public that this would definitely not be slapdash team that was horridly put together.

Ever since the collapse of the Western Reds in 1997, Perth has been seen as the ideal destination for the NRL’s next expansion team. While that may be the case, the current 16-team format is not expected to undergo any expansion until at least 2022 with the negotiation of the next television rights deal. As its stands, a second New Zealand side, additional Queensland teams and maybe even some Pacific franchises are all likely candidates.

According to Greenberg, the game would not be making any major moves into the state mainly because of the lack of rugby code as of next season. Speaking to the press, Greenberg said that the closing of the Force won’t automatically quality Perth for a new NRL team. What the aim is here is to look at Perth from a strategic standpoint as a place to host games. Greenberg went on to say that as of next year, they are going to look very closely at what they can do to build new opportunities in the city. They are also planning on continuing their junior development program at a grass roots level.

Perth Looking for More Opportunities

While it would be great to get ruby back into the city, it is not just a matter of picking up a team and moving them into Perth, the logistics are more complicated with a significant amount of investment and work needed. In recent years, just two games per season have been played in the city. This is a number that can be increased in the years to come. Last year, Australia hosted New Zealand in a test match at the famous nib Stadium. This year, a world Cup rugby league double-header will be played in November before the new stadium hosts the 2019 State of Origin game.

Rugby is big in Western Australia, this is evident if we look at the numbers. There are currently 3600 registered rugby league players in the state alone. Last year, a total of five of the West Coast SG Ball Junior’s made their debut in the NRL’s under-20’s competition. But the state has also lost some promising players including Force players, Chance Peni and Curtis Rona to the 15-man game, which is seen as an easier path to the upper echelons of professional sports.

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When it comes to knowing what’s going on, on the track, field or any other sporting arena, Gary Hicks is your man. With an almost unrivalled passion for journalism, sports and betting Gary decided to combine his love of all 3 and share his expertise with the world.
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