Nigel Wood confirmed as new RLIF chairman

The Rugby League International Federation has confirmed the appointment of Nigel Wood as its new Chairman.

Wood, the Chief Executive of the Rugby Football League and Super League (Europe), succeeds New Zealander Scott Carter.

His appointment was confirmed at the RLIF’s annual meeting in Sydney, where Australian Rugby League Commission Chief Executive Dave Smith was appointed as RLIF Vice-Chairman in succession to Wood.

Wood’s appointment comes just a few months after he helped deliver the most successful international Rugby League tournament of all time in his capacity as Tournament Director of Rugby League World Cup 2013.

Wood said: “I feel proud and privileged to be given the opportunity to chair the RLIF at such an exciting time in the sport’s history.

“The appeal of international competition was underlined by the recent Rugby League World Cup, the success of which has created a platform that will enable us to grow the game around the globe.

“The RLIF has long acknowledged the primacy of international competition and the need to create more opportunities for Rugby League players to represent their country on the biggest stage.

“We made a commitment some time ago to put in place a dedicated Executive team to realise the aims and ambitions of the RLIF and the resources that we now have from the RLWC2013 will allow us to begin that process.

“I would like to place on record my thanks to Scott Carter for his hard work and dedication during his time as RLIF Chairman: Scott’s passion for international Rugby League has shone through over the last three years.

“I would also like to express my pleasure at the appointment of Dave Smith as RLIF Vice-Chairman: Dave’s presence on the RLIF Board demonstrates Australia’s commitment to the international game and I am looking forward to working alongside him.”