Rfl Rules Out 16-team World Club Challenge

02 Sep 2008 | tshego

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The Rugby Football League has dismissed plans for an expanded 16-team World Club Challenge featuring rugby league teams from Britain, Australia, France and New Zealand.

The plans would have seen the best six teams from Britain and Australia and two from each of France and New Zealand meet in a tournament from 2009.

However the RFL has dismissed the suggestion, claiming there would be little room for it in an already crowded calendar.

Craig Spence of the RFL said: ‘Player burn-out also needs to be factored in, so such an event is a non-starter.

‘There is certainly no truth in speculation that the RFL, together with engage Super League clubs, have had a meeting to give such a proposal the thumbs up.

‘The fixture list in this country is already full and we know the NRL’s view on disturbing their competition mid-season.’

The World Club Challenge is currently played as a one-off fixture between the Super League and Australian NRL champions early in the season.

Leeds Rhinos will face Melbourne Storm in the next challenge at Elland Road on 29th February.