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Rugby League

Lewis advocates shorter rugby league season

22/12/2006

The chief executive of the Rugby Football League, Richard Lewis, has claimed that the British league needs to reduce the length of its season to compete with its Australian rival.

The Super League currently consists of 12 teams, each one playing 28 matches during the regular season from the beginning of February onwards, even before the playoffs begin.

With the playoffs also consisting of up to four additional matches and stretching the season into October, many of the sport's bosses think a shift towards a shorter season akin to the equivalent league down under would benefit the players.

"I think by common consent we do struggle a bit because our playing season is longer than the Australians," Lewis told the Today programme.

"[It is] a long-term aim for the Super League and the RFL to reduce the playing season."

Lewis was careful to assert that the problems with British rugby league were not simply restricted to this one problem, however, and that a gradual and complete overhaul was to be undertaken.

"In 2006 the engage Super League had another record season but we can't be reckless and destroy the foundations of the financial stability of the sport just for one particular issue," he continued.

"But long-term I'm sure we'll get there and have a shorter season and address the issue that many people feel there's a weakness compared to the Australians."

The Australian league takes place between March and October and each of the 15 teams play 24 regular season matches.


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