Quote: tb "The point of the WCC is that it's played between the SL and NRL champions.'"
That's the major disadvantage, yes.
But the current WCC isn't really played for by the champions either- the team could have completely disbanded in the off-season. I think the Wests Tigers side that was beaten by Bradford was a shell of its former self.
At least the League Leaders' Shield is a champion of some sort (indeed there are folk who say it should be the championship proper).