BBC SPORT | Rugby League | Sinfield: Clubs must take a stand



By Kevin Sinfield Leeds Rhinos star and BBC Sport Online columnist

Super League clubs must think long and hard the next time they contemplate signing an overseas player.

They have to realise that if the British game is to get stronger and match the appeal of rugby union, we need a thriving international scene.

At the moment, Australia's dominance is not doing us any good at all.

I am all for bringing in a quality player at the peak of his game who is going to give 100%

Kevin Sinfield

If Britain is to mount a serious challenge to the world champions, then we must do all we can to promote our up-and-coming players.

While I am in favour of reducing the quota, I have to say that it is important we do not impose a complete ban.

There has been talk of reducing the number of foreign players clubs can sign to help give our youngsters the chance to shine.

I am all for bringing in a quality player at the peak of his game who is going to give 100%.

But I am dead against players who are coming to the end of their careers turning up in Britain in the hope of earning as much as they can before they retire.

Leeds land McKenna

They are just here for a holiday and do our game no good at all.

Leeds have done pretty well with their recruits.

Brett Mullins and Bradley Clyde struggled last year because of injury.

But this year it has been a real pleasure to play alongside the likes of Ben Walker, Matt Adamson and Tonie Carroll.

Next year, Australian Test centre Chris McKenna will be at Headingley.

Brett Mullins in action for Sydney Roosters
Injury ruined Mullins' stay at Headingley
But not all clubs are as fortunate and I accept that the situation is not black and white.

Clubs often choose to look abroad because they feel the standard of player available to them here in Britain is not good enough.

And it can be difficult deciding whether an emerging player is ready to make the step up to the first team.

If they aren't, then their careers could take a major backward step if they are thrown in at the deep end and sink to the bottom.

But it is time clubs made a stand.

And if that means imposing a voluntary cap on overseas players, I am all for it.


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