Women’s season could be longer

AN extended NRLW season is still on the cards for 2019, with the game’s governing body examining a number of options for the second season.

The inaugural women’s competition held earlier this year was an instant success for the NRL but there were calls from fans to see even more in 2019, following the four-week season.

Despite this call, a number of the game’s heavyweights have advised against expansion or a longer season, including NRLW premiership-winning Broncos coach Paul Dyer who warned of the need for a cautious approach to maintain a quality competition and avoid player burnout. However, it’s understood that while a copy of the 2018 season remains the most popular option for next year, the NRL will take a number of options to the ARL Commission before Christmas, including the possibility of an extended season.

While expansion is definitely off the table for 2019, the NRL have looked at two other options, including doubling the length of the regular draw for a seven-round competition or adding a semi-final to extend the season by one week.