Super League’s Robert Elstone: ‘Wigan playing at the Nou Camp is a huge statement’ | Aaron Bower

Super League’s chief executive has big plans for 2019 and beyond and does not mind if he has to ruffle a few feathers along the way“Super League needed to freshen up, and that’s probably putting it modestly.” Barely five minutes have passed since the Dictaphone was switched on, and it is clear Robert Elstone is in no mood to mince his words. For months, the Super League chief executive has promised a revolution for British rugby league’s elite competition amid a backdrop of boardroom politics but you sense the 54-year-old finally feels as though he is making progress as 2019 begins.Last week Super League unveiled its self-titled “new beginnings” for 2019; a series of law changes aimed at revolutionising the image of the competition. Interchanges have been reduced, while shot clocks designed to speed up games and golden point extra-time are being implemented for 2019 – but Elstone’s plans for change do not end there. “Super League will be different in 2019, that’s for sure,” he explains. “But you’ll see a much better-looking competition in 2020 and the years after that. That’s a guarantee.” Related: Catalans may not defend Challenge Cup crown over £500,000 deposit dispute We don’t have enough recognisable stars at present, and that’s high on our agenda Continue readingread full article

Source: TheGuardian

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