League D-Day looming

7 A FINAL announcement on rugby league’s new structure and fixture format will be made in the next fortnight.

But the controversial Super 8s and Middle 8s will definitely be ditched next season.

Super League clubs, led by new chief executive Robert Elstone, caused uproar when they first floated the proposed plan in June.

Leeds Rhinos, plus several lower tier clubs, insisted the system had to stay and talks have been going on ever since.

But Elstone hinted that the big guns have got their way, saying: “The view on Super 8s and Qualifiers was made very clear and that position hasn’t changed.

Executed

“The format was well intended but the full consequences of it possibly weren’t thought through and have only come to light when it’s been executed.

“We can see the weaknesses in it and that’s why Super League is committed to changing it.”

Elstone said it’s important to announce the new structure soon so clubs can plan for next season.

He said: “A big priority is season tickets for 2019. Every club needs to have that certainty sooner rather than later.”

A form of promotion and relegation will be included in the new structure, but details have not yet been finalised.

The results of the current Middle 8s competition will stand, no matter who is relegated or promoted.

Elstone said: “The format is established and we have to accept the consequence of whatever happens in the Qualifiers.”