Quote: nadera78 "The problems would come when the clubs decide they don't want to lose players to international fixtures. We need to grow our sport via the national team but the clubs will undoubtedly block this because they want to be playing games themselves.'"
Growth through internationals may have to go on the "back burner" for a few years.
There are 3 credible teams globally with PNG/Wales/France making up the 4 intermitently, the Aussies and Kiwis don't give a flying one now they are wedged up (SoO has got too big already,regardless of the best intentions of the new ARL statements) so better to create a TRUE SUPER league, with profitable clubs able to raise their cap, keep/attract quality players and then stand toe to toe with the other 2?
Currently, 44,000 people filling Wembley to see the the top 4 teams in the world isn't going to either inspire a generation or fund their development....but a SUPER LEAGUE comp in 10 years boasting the best players in 14 teams all with a chance of winning something has to be better than what we have now......which is essentially a 2 tier league with the bottom 8 fighting over the chance of one extra away game at the end of the season?
From a business standpoint, I would expect all Franchises to be averaging 10,000 crowds with a minimum of 2 million a year from ticketed revenue by the end of year 5 or 6 at the latest, with any club not making it cut free or the Franchise moved/sold...
2 million in tickets, 2 million in residuals, 1 million from SKY....everyone becomes self sufficient, with a 5 million Turn over, a competition atendance audience of about 100,000 a week and a far more attractive proposition to National sponsors, partners and broadcasters with an even greater opportunity for growth.