“Hit the Pause Button: Cam Smith Cautions NRL on Premature Addition of 20th Team”

Rugby league legend Cam Smith has voiced concerns over the NRL’s plans to make Ipswich the league’s 20th team, urging the governing body to “pump the brakes” as the talent pool might struggle to support a competitive squad.

The Ipswich Jets appear to be leading the charge for the next franchise, having received $42.5 million in funding aimed at upgrading the North Ipswich Reserve to meet NRL specifications.

This bid has garnered support from significant figures within the sport, including Ben Ikin and Peter V’landys, advocating for a fifth team from Queensland.

The region has produced a wealth of NRL stars over the past few decades, with many locals believing that financial support could enable the new team to achieve success on the field.

During Nine’s broadcast of the Cowboys’ thrilling 35-31 win against the Broncos, Smith acknowledged the area’s rich football talent but cautioned against rushing the decision to introduce a 20th team.

“It’s a fantastic location for another team, particularly considering the significant growth in Brisbane’s western corridor,” he remarked.

“The big question for the NRL is whether this would dilute our talent pool too much.

“Do we have enough high-quality players to support a 20th team?

“We’re already bringing in teams 18 and 19 over the next couple of years.

“It might be wise to slow down and assess the situation before committing to another Brisbane club.”

The CQ bid was a topic of discussion back in 2010 when David Gallop was the CEO, just before he departed two years later. Plans were even in the works for a team named The Miners.

However, expansion was delayed until the Dolphins were welcomed in as the 17th team in 2023, with ARLC chairman Peter V’landys and NRL CEO Andrew Abdo facilitating the decision.

“We fully support the idea of another team in Queensland, as there is an emerging NRL bid from Central Queensland,” Ikin told AAP.

“Several senior figures in rugby league, including those from the government, have informed me that this is indeed progressing.

“There are many passionate supporters in that area, similar to those in Brisbane’s western corridor, who would be thrilled to see an NRL team based in Rockhampton. This competitive edge is beneficial for the sport.

“Who knows? We could end up with six teams in Queensland. Just after COVID, did anyone anticipate us having teams in Perth and PNG? I certainly didn’t.

“With the current leadership in place, growth is definitely on the horizon given the surge in participants, viewers, and investment.”