There are several interesting developments either underway or under serious discussion at the moment...

Anzac Test:

The NRL has deliberately left things open in the Telstra Premiership program in during this years Anzac weekend. This is because they are currently courting the NZRL to bring back the Anzac Test Between the Kiwi's and the Kangaroo's.

 New Finals Series Format:

A new format dubbed the Ryan system (after it's architect Warren Ryan) is under consideration. If implemented it will see extensive changes to the way finals are structured.

"WEEK 1 Game 1: 5 v 8, Game 2: 6 v 7, Game 3: 2 v 3, Game 4: 1 v 4. *Highest-ranked winner to Week 3, lowest-ranked loser eliminated. WEEK 2 Game 5: top-4 highest loser v bottom-4 lowest winner. Game 6: top-4 lowest loser v bottom-4 highest winner. Game 7: top-4 2nd highest winner v bottom-4 2nd lowest loser. *All losers eliminated. WEEK 3 Game 8: highest winner week 1 v lowest winner week 2. Game 9: highest winner week 2 v 2nd highest winner week 2. *Losers eliminated. WEEK 4 - Grand final"  (smh.com.au,2003)

A Tri Series:

A Tri- Series between league heavyweights New Zealand , Australia and Great Britain similar to  The Rugby Union Tri-Series between New Zealand, Australia and South Africa might be initiated in 2004.

Posted 8th December, 2003