Super League is reportedly close to approving a significant partnership with the National Rugby League (NRL), which would see the Australian governing body take administrative control from 2027. The NRL is prepared to provide Super League clubs with approximately £35m over five years in exchange for this control. The deal, which had stalled over the summer, is now said to be on the verge of approval following a meeting on Friday, with nearly all clubs reportedly in favour.
While the finer details are still being finalised, the NRL's involvement is expected to drive forward the competition's off-field prospects from next season.
Meanwhile, on the field, Wigan Warriors are dominating as the playoffs begin. Matt Peet's side has achieved 16 consecutive wins across all competitions, a run that began with their Challenge Cup victory in May. They secured the League Leaders’ Shield after defeating Leeds and then hammering Catalans Dragons 50-12.
Wigan and Leeds, having finished in the top two, will bypass the opening week of the playoffs. This Friday, Wakefield and Leigh will compete in an eliminator tie, while on Saturday, third-placed Warrington will host reigning champions Hull KR.