The richest television rights deal in Australian free-to-air history may be NRL boss Dave Smith's crowning glory but it will not be his final act as chief executive.

Smith even hinted that it would take a decade to fulfil all his wishes for the game's long-term direction. Once he puts the finishing touches on the pay-TV element of the broadcast agreement Smith's focus will shift to completing the game's stadia policy and securing the funds to leave a legacy for the NRL Foundation. The NRL launched its whole of game foundation in July to provide assistance to players who suffer catastrophic injuries, while Smith has led the push to the NSW state government to turn Moore Park into a rugby league haven.

Smith played down speculation he would walk away from the game once he secured the broadcast deal. The former banker is in his third year as NRL boss since taking over from David Gallop.