The NSW Rugby League and Country Rugby League (CRL) today received support from the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) for their joint vision of a merger that would see Rugby League in NSW governed by one body for the first time in more than 80 years.

A delegation of NSWRL and CRL executives, including NSWRL Chairman Dr George Peponis OAM and Chief Executive David Trodden, together with the CRL Chairman John Anderson and Chief Executive Terry Quinn, presented a proposed plan to the ARLC, which would see both organisations work towards merging into a single entity by 1 November 2020.

The proposed merger would allow for significantly more combined resources to deliver Rugby League programs and competitions across the whole state, with existing NSWRL and CRL staff assured that their employment is secure.

Dr Peponis said:"We are really excited about the future of the game in New South Wales and the opportunity a single governing body presents.

"I would like to acknowledge the role Jim Doyle has played in the merger process and thank ARLC Chairman Peter Beattie and the Commission for their indication of support for the proposal."

Mr Anderson said: "The CRL has formally committed to working alongside New South Wales Rugby League in seeking to create a merged governing body that will continue to serve in the best interests of clubs, participants and volunteers at all levels for the future of the game in New South Wales."