RLIF Chairman Nigel Wood insists that there is currently discussions taking place regarding a long-term international calendar through to 2021 – which he believes will help the game be in a better position moving forward.
The international game has drawn much criticism in the last 12 months after a severe lack of fixtures, following on from a hugely successful World Cup last year.
And Wood believes that a lengthy calendar being in place will help countries be able to develop on the international arena, as well as help the game to grow in the process.
“I wanted to visit my two fellow directors here in the Pacific, mainly to try and understand the challenges they face in the region. It is clear to see their passion for rugby league. ” says Wood.
“At the moment RLIF is in the process of developing its international calendar to 2021 World Cup so nations will be in a much better position in planning their international commitments.”
Wood was speaking during a visit to the Cook Islands and Samoa, ahead of the Four Nations final this weekend. He was greeted by directors of both countries; Charles Carlson from the Cook Islands, and Faafouina Su’a of Samoa – with Wood drawing praise as a man who is striving to take the international game forward from Carlson.
“Mr Wood is a man of action with the goal of growing the game globally and for him to make the effort to visit our little paradise speaks volumes of his commitment to the region,” he said.
“I believe that it is crucial to the development of the game that there are more international games to be played here in the Cook Islands and more accreditation clinics for both coaches and referees at all levels. I see progress on each of these goals.”