Expanded WCC in 2009?

[pommieknight]

Expanded Club Challenge ruled out

Plans for an expanded 16-team World Club Challenge have been dismissed by the Rugby Football League.

A weekend report suggested the best six teams from Britain and Australia and two from each of France and New Zealand could meet in a tournament from 2009.

But the RFL dismissed the suggestion, claiming there would be little room for it in an already crowded calendar.

Craig Spence of the RFL said: "Player burn-out also needs to be factored in, so such an event is a non-starter."

The World Club Challenge is currently played as a one-off fixture between the Super League and Australian NRL champions early in the season.

Leeds will face Melbourne Storm in the next challenge at Elland Road on 29 February.

Spence added: "There is certainly no truth in speculation that the RFL, together with engage Super League clubs, have had a meeting to give such a proposal the thumbs up.

"The only World Club Challenge we're currently looking forward to is the mouth-watering clash between Leeds Rhinos and Melbourne Storm.

"The fixture list in this country is already full and we know the NRL's view on disturbing their competition mid-season."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_league/7125290.stm

Was this ever talked about in Aus/NZ?

 

[Bedsey_is_the_best]

Haven't heard anything about expanding it that I can remember. I agree though, there just isn't enough time, and it would be such a hassle right in the middle of the off season.

 

[U23]

That would seem like a cool idea. Though the rugby calender is crowded enough as it is, and gotta consider the players. Their men, not machines.

 

[Bedsey_is_the_best]

I would like to see i WCC in Australia if they are talking about making this better. I no the heat is a problem though.

 

[knight-no-7]

Awesome idea, but not enough time to stage it.

 

[jamesgould]

It's a lame idea, look at the disaster that was the Superleague WCC.

The one now if good, although it should be played mid-season, and treated with more importance.

 

[Denno]

I actually love this idea. Kind of like what they have in football (soccer). Like worldwide club cups like UEFA and stuff.. or close enough to worldwide.