Hudgell says new Super League boss should be free from RFL

Hull KR chairman Neil Hudgell believes the next Super League general manager should have no huge connections to the sport’s governing body. 

Super League is looking for a new leader after it was announced that Blake Solly is to leave his current role to head Down Under to operate as Chief Executive at NRL side South Syndey Rabbitohs.

The RFL-marketing director Mark Foster is to take up the role while Solly’s replacement is found, and Hudgell wants the next general manager to not have a conflict of interests.

“The clubs would want a high-calibre individual with the same skills set as Blake,” Hudgell told the Yorkshire Post.

“It’s not surprise he is going back to Australia as he has done a really good job here.

“(But) there’s been a long-running debate whether or not Super League needs someone specific in that capacity – dedicated solely to the compeition – rather than having someone with an RFL crossover.

“Super League is, after all, the pinnacle over the sport here. The candidate needs to have autonomy and the clubs have to have a profound say with regards the outcome of the appointment otherwise it could lead to an outbreak of civil war.

“I want to see someone who represents the interests of Super League and that the clubs have a strong representation when it comes to selection.”