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Let’s have a true national NRL

According to South Australian rugby league boss Ken Kennedy, for a truly national NRL, teams in Perth and Adelaide would be necessary, which is only feasible if an existing club relocates.

As the NRL’s new TV deal approaches, discussions about expansion are intensifying, and this week, Canterbury is engaging with the Adelaide community as part of a carnival initiative.

With Perth aiming to join the league in 2013, the revival of a team like the Adelaide Rams could finalize the NRL representation across all major cities in Australia.

However, new SARL general manager Ken Kennedy suggests that a stand-alone bid for Adelaide will not happen when the NRL explores expansion next.

‘Honestly, our focus might be more on the possibility of a team relocating,’ Kennedy informed AAP on Tuesday.

‘We need to enhance the game beyond its current state.

‘That said, there was a notable following when the Rams were present, so who knows what the future could bring.’

The Rams had a brief existence, competing for two seasons—first in the 1997 Super League and later in the unified competition in 1998—before ceasing operations.

Historically, rugby league has faced criticism for undermining its national goals, primarily due to the dissolution of both the Rams and Perth’s Western Reds.

In addition to Perth’s application, various locations, including Central Coast, Wellington, Ipswich, Central Queensland, and a second Brisbane group, are eager to enter the competition.

Nevertheless, the league has indicated that no expansion may occur, and potential bidders will need to demonstrate their capacity to grow the game’s audience.

The Bulldogs will once again hold their home game against Melbourne in Adelaide this July, building on last year’s successful event.

A total of 10,350 fans attended, witnessing the Dogs’ 20-18 victory.

In 2009, financially struggling Cronulla played a match in Adelaide but later canceled their scheduled games for 2010-11.

The Sharks also explored the option of distributing home games between Toyota Park and Gosford before the NRL deemed them ineligible for part of the $8 million incentive offered to any club willing to relocate to the Central Coast.

NRL chief David Gallop stated that a similar financial package might be available for clubs considering relocation to other areas.

‘Adelaide has to be appealing, considering it’s only a 90-minute flight from Sydney,’ Kennedy remarked.

‘It’s a great state and could definitely support an NRL team.’

The 15,000-seat Hindmarsh Stadium, along with a potential audience of one million television viewers, are distinct advantages, though the limited number of 1500 junior players is a concern.

‘Corporate backing for the sport needs significant improvement, and many may still be affected by the Rams’ exit,’ Kennedy added.

‘I anticipate that as those TV rights improve, we could see a team emerge in the future.

‘I believe the TV rights will play a crucial role in shaping the future of these affiliated states.’

by Buford Balony

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