HERE WE GROW

Rhinos chief backs move to 14 teams

- by DAVE CRAVEN

LEEDS chief executive Gary Hetherington has defended the decision to increase Super League to 14 clubs, insisting it’s a “positive message”.

The 12 existing clubs yesterday voted to extend the competition for next season.

Many people thought the rise might occur in time for 2027 - but club owners have opted to move now.

Although the decision helps in some aspects, including getting rid of the much-maligned ‘loop’ fixtures in the current 27-round campaign, it's hard to see how a 14-club competition will stack up with the sport already struggling financially.

There is also an argument there is not enough quality even to sustain a 12-club operation.