Nothing will re-enforce the cloth cap image of rugby league more than a 'War of t'roses' competition! An absolute no no is this (and im an ardent a Lancastrian as the next man) International origin by all means and xtend the Exiles concept to include real Welsh and French born players is a great thought for me.

Establish this properly and the away test in France each year and you have the backbone of an international calendar, as well as ticking the need for competitive England matches and French development boxes

When we get a genuine international competition , ie the French or Welsh start beating England

, then people will get interested

Grow the exciles concept. It had a very promising start and it's meant to have it's own weekend next season so let's see it kick on.

That could prove to be the link between league fixtures and internationals we crave.

It might grow if we can start winning those games as well

Not in my suggestion.

Really?

I wouldn't be so sure.

Well I don't think it was good.

It's the only way it'll come back: as a level below the top.

It should never replace England internationals, and suggesting using top players in it IS replacing potential England internationals.

As for using French and Welsh players in the Exiles, why? Where have they been "exiled" from for a start? Chances are, the French will still be playing in France, and until recently the Welsh would have most likely been at Cru (or born in England!).
It would make FAR more sense to just have France vs Wales next season on the same weekend as England vs Exiles (especially if it's on a free weekend as rumoured).

or just not have the Exiles game and get England playing France and Wales.

England, Exiles, Celtic nations and France.

England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, France, with GB competing at the end of the year.

SL funding cut, and payment made for clubs to release players for the home nations, the more players you have playing for them, the more money you get. It becomes in your best interests for a player to be playing international RL and a player like Carvell or Brough doesnt need to switch to England to play against the tier 1 nations because we would play as GB.