Australia’s NRL launches women’s league

SYDNEY: Australia’s National Rugby League wi l l launch a women’s competition next year with female participation in the sport soaring, it was announced Wednesday.

There will also be a State of Origin match between New South Wales and Queensland, like the men, with Tests lined up for the Jillaroos in the Pacific and New Zealand.

NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg said six teams would play in the inaugural competition as double headers with men’s matches in the lead- up to and during the league’s fi nals.

Which franchises are to be involved has not been fi nalised, although reports said the New Zealand Warriors and Brisbane Broncos were keen.

“For the first time, there will be a dedicated pathway for our women to follow – from grassroots junior league, to state competitions, and on to premiership matches and Origin and Test match opportunities,” he said.

“The women’s game has become an attraction in its own right and anyone who has seen the Jillaroos in action cannot help but be impressed by the skills and athleticism on display.”

Some 40 players would be offered Jillaroos contracts, which would include match payments, he added. Australia’s biggest spectator sport – Aussie Rules – launched its first semi-professional national women’s league this year, and it has been a big success with crowds of more than 15,000 at some games. — AFP