This paragraph buried deep in an article about Expansion is a very interesting initiative as it seems likely that if there is a true second tier competition under the NRL then it is likely to be a part of strategy for promotion and relegation.Smith said $11 million would be spent on bring the NSW and Queensland Cups under the NRL banner to establish a national second-tier competition, with the winners of both competitions to play off on grand final day at ANZ Stadium.
I would really like that. Imagine, even if just the bottom team has to bugger off (two would be better) how much pressure that would apply to people such as Searle who currently live in a comfort zone?
I go even further and suggest 2 x 12 team competitions which would cater for a truly national competition with every area represented at either NRL or sub NRL level whilst also giving each bid a chance to be included. Top two go up and bottom two go down plus 2 full home and away rounds and more space in the calendar for rep etc. 12 games per weekend would appease the broadcasters and give he fans a wide selection.
If both competitions are televised then they will also be revenue producing and we could watch the Titans v Souffs after watching PNG Hunters v WA Pirates.
NRL: Easts, Manly, Melbourne, NQ, Souths, Canterbury, Panthers, NZ01, Newcastle, Brisbane01, Canberra, Gold Coast.
NRL02: Parramatta, Dragons, Wests, Cronulla, WA, Central Coast, Brisbane02, CQ, NZ02, PNG, Adelaide, NT (for example)
Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/l...#ixzz2uIh0b1VH