No scrums for Super League return as ‘Six Again’ is used

HE RFL board ratified the muchdiscussed raft of potential rule changes ahead of Super League’s resumption next month - but crucially deferred any decision on whether promotion and relegation will be scrapped.

Rugby league’s governing body said a decision will now be made on this key issue no later than July 23, but conceded that surveys of the 25 clubs in the Betfred Championship and League 1 have revealed a majority would find the resumption of those leagues ‘impractical’ if matches had to take place behind closed doors.

When Super League returns on August 2, there will be no scrums and the NRL’s new ‘Six Again’ rule which sees the tackle count restarted rather than a penalty blown for ruck and marker infringements - will be adopted.

It is thought the changes will speed up the game and mitigate the risks for players

The new rules will apply to all levels of the professional game - but it appears unlikely the two divisions below Super League will return to action before fans are allowed back in stadiums.

Matchday revenues derived from spectators are the key income stream and the loss of those opportunities, plus increased costs relating to testing and other logistical issues, would likely leave many clubs unable to survive.

However, a majority showed a willingness to engage in a revised competition later in the year, if it could be made viable.

The RFL board will now consider the issue of if and when the Championship and League 1 return and how this will impact on promotion and relegation - at its board meetings on July 13 and 20, and will announce its conclusions soon after.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has presented all sports with immense challenges,” said RFL chair Simon Johnson. “We continue to work through these challenges in rugby League, and our approach throughout has been to consider the interests of all our member clubs, and of the game as a whole.

“That is why we have been keen to communicate and consult as often as possible – and that consultation has revealed a wide range of opinions.

“We recognise that further important decisions are necessary in terms of the tiers below Super League, and promotion and relegation - and that there is urgency in making these decisions.”