Leeds chief Gary Hetherington slams proposed structure changes

Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington has blasted Super League officials following the unveiling of Robert Elstone as the new Super League chief.

Elstone took part in his first press conference as the new Super League boss on Tuesday, sitting alongside Wigan, St Helens and Warrington owners Ian Lenagan, Eamonn McManus and Simon Moran.

It was revealed that the Super 8s will be scrapped at the end of the season, with a return to a one-up, one-down structure from 2019 onwards.

But Hetherington has slammed the proposed changes and has taken digs at Lenagan, McManus, Morgan and Elstone.

In a statement, Hetherington said: “Today’s announcement regarding plans for next season appear to be an absurd grab for power for the game by a small group of men who think they own the game.

“Leeds Rhinos are not party to this and are totally against the creation of a separate Super League executive. Super League clubs voted seven to five at our last meeting on some key issues related to promotion and relegation.

“The game is in need of strong leadership from Brian Barwick and his board of directors at the Rugby Football League, the games governing body, and this announcement should bring a response from everyone connected with the game.”