Doncaster chief puts forward alternative Super League expansion method

DONCASTER chief executive Carl Hall has called for the teams that finish top of the Championship and the play-off winners to be promoted to Super League.

Hall said in a statement that he supported an expanded Super League from twelve teams to 14, but disagrees with an independent panel choosing the final two to make the cut alongside the top twelve graded clubs.

Instead, the New Zealander feels that the remaining sides should be chosen via on-field competition.

As well as that, Hall believes that Doncaster “are ready to push the bottom” if the “opportunity arises” for the South Yorkshire club to be elevated into Super League.

Hall said: “We welcome the decision to expand Super League to 14 teams from next season. This is a significant step forward in the efforts to strengthen the game in this country.

“If the opportunity presents itself for this club to reach Super League, we are ready to push the button. We are incredibly passionate about growing the Dons both on and off the pitch and know that Super League is the ultimate destination.

“However, I strongly believe that the two clubs joining the top flight for 2026 should be decided on merit – and by that I mean on-field performance only.

“The Championship league leaders and the winners of the play-off final are the two clubs which should make up the 14.

“The foundation of this incredible sport is fearless, full-blooded competition and it is that which should determine how each of the divisions are formed.”

Whilst the remaining two sides to make it a 14-team Super League will be chosen by an independent panel chaired by Lord Jonathan Caine, the top twelve will be decided by the grading system.