Castleford become latest club to challenge RFL academy decision

Last week, the rugby league world was rocked by the decision made by the sport’s governing body with regards to academies. Castleford were one of a number of high-profile clubs to be denied an Elite Academy Licence for 2022-27 leaving many bemused by a move that seems to limit the talent pool and level clubs at a disadvantage.

But today, the Tigers have officially announced that they will be challenging the decision. Initially, Castleford believed that their application was strong and warranted a renewal of their academy licence. Despite this, the Tigers’ application was denied. Nonetheless, the club believes that this decision came about due to an unfair process that overlooked the success of their long-standing academy products many of whom still play for the club.

In fact, the Tigers have nine homegrown players in their 21-man ahead of their Friday night derby with Leeds. Nonetheless, Castleford, like Hull KR and Bradford, were denied an Elite Academy licence and now the Tigers are looking to overturn this.

Ultimately, they believe that the decision was unfair and could be damaging to the development and welfare of sum 70 young players currently involved in the Tigers’ academy system.