The future of Rugby’s Super League remains unclear today after the mass walk-out of six representatives – including those from Wigan Warriors – from a crucial meeting designed to decide its future.
The fury was sparked after eight clubs in the meeting lent their support to a proposal to reduce the number of clubs in the 2015 Super League season from 14 to 12.
However, representatives from Wigan and Warrington, alongside those from Catalan Dragons, Huddersfield Giants, Hull FC and Hull Kingston Rovers walked out of the meeting, meaning that no vote could take place.
Brian Barwick, the chairman of Super League Europe, called the walkout action an unsatisfactory way for clubs to demonstrate their frustrations.
“It is very disappointing that we were unable to take a vote on such important issues because some clubs chose to leave the room and refuse to participate further,” he said.
“These proposals would have had a positive impact on the whole sport but they were halted by a minority of clubs.
“Clearly some of the clubs have deep-rooed issues and between us we have to find a way of resolving our differences for the benefit of both the Super League and the wider game.”
A statement from the Super League said that the six clubs had blocked the decision on the basis that any debate on change should only take place alongside a review of the competition’s commercial management and governance.
It is not the first time Warrington have been involved in controversy over the Super League format.
Coach Tony Smith refused to appear at the ‘ClubCall’ prior to the semi-finals as he disagreed with the format, accusing it of over-complicating the competition.
Rugby league in the North West has received a boost in recent weeks. The hotly-contested Super League final between Wigan and Warrington at Old Trafford saw Wigan emerge victorious, while the Rugby League World Cup, which begins this Friday, is centred around Manchester.
Games will be played at Rochdale, Merseyside and Cheshire, and the centrepiece final will be held at Old Trafford football ground.
Image courtesy of Mac Evans, with thanks
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