NEW RL CHIEF TO SCRAP SUPER 8S

RUGBY LEAGUE is set to scrap its controversial Super 8s system and revert to a more traditional promotion and relegation next year as part of a fresh focus on the top tier. New Super League chief executive Robert Elstone confirmed the planned moves as part of a wide-ranging introduction to his role in Warrington yesterday. But the announcement drew an angry response from Leeds Rhinos’ chief executive Gary Hetherington, whose club is the only top-flight side not behind the move, according to Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan. Hetherington said: “Today’s announcement, regarding plans for next season, appears to be an absurd grab for power for the game by a small group of men, who think they own the game.” The row overshadowed the introduction of former Everton CEO Elstone (above), who stated that “simplicity and understanding” of the game’s structure is crucial.

Elstone was joined at the press conference by Lenagan, Warrington owner Simon Moran, and St Helens chief Eamonn McManus. The latter said: “When I first got involved in the game 18 years ago, Super League was absolutely on a par with the NRL.

“It was ahead of the Premiership and other club rugby union competitions around the world in terms of TV deals, sponsors and spectators.

“Now we are way behind and cannot leave it any longer. We cannot allow that to continue in the future, otherwise the result will be terminal.

“The clubs have got together to say this is a new direction and a new vision, and it has to happen now.”