League: NRL Sport: Rugby Country: Australia Category: Coaching

Brian McDermott urges Super League to embrace NRL investment

BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 22, 2026, 9:22 PM

Last updated Oct 22, 2026

Brian McDermott urges Super League to embrace NRL investment

Summary

England head coach Brian McDermott is advocating for the Super League to accept investment from Australia's NRL to enhance the English rugby league experience. Ongoing discussions follow Super League clubs rejecting a £35 million offer from the Australian Rugby League Commission. McDermott believes that NRL investment could significantly benefit the English game, particularly in marketing and presenting the sport. He highlights the financial disparity between the two leagues, with the NRL securing a record $5.3 billion TV deal compared to Super League's much smaller agreement. A partnership could also support talent development for future England teams, according to McDermott.

Source Links

BBC Sport

Key Details

•McDermott calls for NRL investment to boost English rugby league.
•Super League clubs previously rejected a £35 million proposal.
•Financial differences between the leagues are stark, with NRL's $5.3 billion TV deal.
•Investment could enhance talent development for future England teams.
•Ongoing discussions aim to formalize a partnership for mutual benefit.

Latest Updates

9:22 PMBBC Sport — England boss McDermott calls for Super League to accept NRL investment

What they're saying

"
England head coach Brian McDermott calls for Super League to accept investment from Australia's NRL in order to improve the English game.
— BBC Sport

Related Teams & Leagues

NRL Rugby