Players dismiss notion of mid-season league split

The proposal is one of three options put forward by the governing body for a restructuring of the domestic competition from 2015.

In a poll commissioned by the Super League players’ association, 1eague3, the game’s stars gave a firm thumbs-down to the RFL’s favoured option, arguing for a more simple formula.

Of the 158 who responded to the survey, 146 voted for a 12-team Super League – a reduction of two clubs – with one side to be promoted and one relegated.

Just seven players voted for the controversial 2x12; 3x8 proposal.

“I am grateful to the RFL for consulting with 1eagu3, both in terms of information and in face-to-face briefings,” said 1eagu3 chief executive Ernie Benbow.

“It is hoped that the consultation is proper, effective and meaningful and not lip service to the required consultative process.

“We have consulted our members who voted in numbers with a clear and unequivocal message: Simplicity is the way forward. No other major league opts for such complexity, so why rugby league?

“Rugby league has a habit of tinkering with issues. It continually tinkers with its rules/laws, regularly causing confusion to the watching public.

“Simplicity and stability are key to success and not change for the sake of change.”

Benbow points out that the mid-season split plan was tried, tested and rejected by the Swiss Football Association and recently rejected as an option by the Scottish FA.

Castleford Tigers prop Nathan Massey has extended his contract until the end of 2015.