I think ultimately that could be the sort of logic they're aiming at but there's a few potholes in the RL world, especially the semi pro game an administration has to maneouver. To put your idea in the firing line for one second (I don't disagree, just playing devils advocate), i'm not sure the seasons do end together, hence the current planned dates, besides, although I take your point about the squads changing, it's a great time of season to host it. Maybe a champion of champions following the season would work but when it is currently, it should be good weather and it's not interfering with the business end of the season.

Secondly, the WCC of 97.
Remember it? I was only a kiddywink then, but even then I remember the dire crowds, the overinflation of players' wages and the ridiculous amount of money that was lost. As stated previously, this is a test the water phase, it's keeping expenses down, if they took a month from the season, involved 8 teams going round robin, 500 crowds turned up, hotels, flights blah blah blah then you can see how quickly it can turn into a very expensive shindig, not to mention that it's not had enough preparation.

It isn't perfect by any means but I can certainly see why they have taken this 'dip your toes in' approach for the first year, but lets not forget, this is for the french sides. A few french winners and you'll begin to see an expanded comp, SL applications coming from everywhere, hell, maybe Leigh should go and join THEIR comp

For me - can't see a problem with the Co-op Champs playing the French Champs in a 'challenge match'.......why not make it a 'curtain-raiser' (or double-header,depending on how you want to spin it!) with the WCC......affording another 'shop window' to the clubs (on both sides of the channel!) outside SDL??
What I do have a problem with is three completely pointless fixtures running alongside this challenge game.....and the fact Toulouse are 'in', irrespective of where they finish!!

Considering the 9/7 split of SL to Champ clubs, the last 16 draw could have been kinder. As it looks, just us or Fax will be left to represent the Championship in the quarter finals

Think you might be on the wrong thread mate!! - This is a discussion about the 'Anglo-French' farce coming up later in the season - not the CC!!

Agreed, that would make a much better idea than the other one.