“We still have questions” – Uncertainty remains over IMG

Kris Radlinski has done everything at Wigan Warriors from playing for the Cherry and Whites to now acting as the CEO.

He was present today as IMG presented to the RFL Council the recommended grading criteria to define how Super League, RFL Championship and League One clubs will be assessed starting from 2025, as part of the Reimagining Rugby League plans.

Based on a combination of on and off-field variables, the proposed grading criteria are designed to collectively increase clubs’ fanbases, diversify revenues, drive investment into clubs and the sport in a sustainable manner, run clubs in a best-in-class way and ensure strong governance is in place.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Radlinski gave his view:

“No surprises. There was a lot of information that we need to digest. Everyone’s natural reaction is to react to what it means for the club but I have changed my stance and looked at what it means for the sport.

“I have commented about how important the next decade is for rugby league so we need to make sure we’re in a good place.

“We need to improve our standards across the board and that can only be good.

“Overall I thought it was a pretty positive meeting but we still have questions.

“Right from the start from IMG was that we were spending too much time on the rugby but not the product.

“It is a critical period, it won’t be easy but we are dealing with people who know what they’re doing.”