RFL responds to Wheeler claims
July 18, 2001

Rugby League chairman Sir Rodney Walker believes that the 13-man code has a "strong and vibrant" future despite claims today that Super League's top clubs were considering switching codes.

The reaction to comments made by Peter Wheeler, the Leicester Tigers' chief executive in an Australian newspaper, came after a meeting of the RFL's board of directors today.

It comes, also, after London Broncos chief executive Lionel Hurst called on league's top brass to put personal interests to one side and join the fight to strengthen league's standing both domestically and, more importantly, on the international scene.

Sir Rodney said: "We have noted the comments and it has been clear to those of us involved in rugby league for some time that rugby union had admired the success and quality of our game, any interest is therefore not surprising.

"However, we are looking forward to the publication of our strategic planning report in August which we believe will be the launch pad for a bright future for our game."

He added: "Rugby league has many inherent qualities and virtues which make it a strong vibrant sport enjoyed by many thousands of people throughout the UK at all levels. These qualities will ensure that the sport continues to prosper."

However, there are continuing concerns in the league heartlands of Yorkshire and Lancashire that league clubs are courting the 15-man code and that the two codes are gradually moving towards a merger, something league's core support have vowed to fight.

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