I think Central Coast Bears will replace the Sharks when they fold out.
The sharks wont fold. Im sorry but i think u read too much newspaper, then belive too much of what u read. They are an easy target, but the fact is they are financially better than they were 12 months ago.
They own their own stadium (which is now in talks of Hosting other codes etc (bringing in more money)
All the new board has alot of new ideas which are good business ideas, at the end of the day, these clubs are business's, and as long as u arent pulling yourself into more debt, your making money (in a way) which is whats happening.
The Sharks lost LG, which was a very good sponsor, mainly due to the off feild ****.
I dont think they will fold, as it takes alot to be declared down and out now, and while theres sponsors, merchandising etc, plus the new development due to start, money will come in.
A new club in the NRL doesnt mean a club goes.
IMO in 10 years time there should be 20 clubs Australia wide, Split into 2 conferences, which play there own finals, then play a grand final between each conference premier.
The only way for the NRL to grow is to actually grow it, not trim it then let it blossom.
Another NZ club is a must, for the simple fact, right now the KIWIS are rulling the sport (in numbers).
Another QLD team for sure, whether it be central qld, or a second Brisane based team (which would make the whole 3rd party agreements in the cap etc fairer as Broncs wont have free run of a huge city for coin)
A Perth based club, they need to take it west, i know years back it didnt work, but I think its time to give it a go, whats the worst that can happen?
Either CC Bears, or an Adelaide team would be good. Bears for the heritage feelings, (althought it would be great to be Norths again), or Adelaide for the expansion idea.
20 teams with a perfectly formed comp would be the best way to do it.
Say each team plays each team once, so thats 19 games, then they play the other teams in there conference once. thats 28 rounds, 2 more than present, NO BYES.
I think it needs to expand, or AFL's expansion will kill the game first