In my view, expanding the competition would be disastrous.

Take a look at the 1997 tournament for an illustration of how badly things could go. We could also argue that we were closer to the Aussies then

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1997_World ... ampionship

The comp was rigged to get 4 English teams play 4 Aussie teams at the Quarter Final stage. We lost all 4 games. Add that to the poor crowds and it was never attempted again.

Since then until very recently Aussie teams have treated the WCC as an extended -up, until regular beatings made them change. I still don't think they are that bothered. Take a look at the muted celebrations by their team on Saturday and the disinterest shown by Jennings upon being told he is the only player to score a hat-trick. It was sort of like "so what".

Although the game on Saturday could be considered a success. Let's say Wire had played, they would have had 60 put on them, and the stadium would have been empty. Added to that if Wigan win the GF this season will that many fans travel again? I doubt it. Wigan were ambitious playing over there and it remains to be seen what the long term consequences are. I think we are better off playing the game over here as per usual. Having the odds stacked in our favour will keep it close. Playing regularly over in Australia will only exaggerate the disparity.

In my view, expanding the competition would be disastrous.

Take a look at the 1997 tournament for an illustration of how badly things could go. We could also argue that we were closer to the Aussies then

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1997_World ... ampionship

The comp was rigged to get 4 English teams play 4 Aussie teams at the Quarter Final stage. We lost all 4 games. Add that to the poor crowds and it was never attempted again.

Since then until very recently Aussie teams have treated the WCC as an extended -up, until regular beatings made them change. I still don't think they are that bothered. Take a look at the muted celebrations by their team on Saturday and the disinterest shown by Jennings upon being told he is the only player to score a hat-trick. It was sort of like "so what".

Although the game on Saturday could be considered a success. Let's say Wire had played, they would have had 60 put on them, and the stadium would have been empty. Added to that if Wigan win the GF this season will that many fans travel again? I doubt it. Wigan were ambitious playing over there and it remains to be seen what the long term consequences are. I think we are better off playing the game over here as per usual. Having the odds stacked in our favour will keep it close. Playing regularly over in Australia will only exaggerate the disparity.