Hit the Pause Button: Cam Smith Cautions NRL on Rushing Into a 20th Team

Maroons legend Cam Smith has suggested that the NRL should “hit the brakes” on the prospect of Ipswich becoming the league’s 20th franchise, cautioning that the current talent pool may not be sufficient to support a competitive side.

The Jets are reportedly leading the charge to secure the league’s next expansion spot, having been awarded $42.5 million in funding for upgrades to North Ipswich Reserve to meet NRL standards.

This bid received prominent support from influential figures in the sport this week, with Ben Ikin and Peter V’landys both advocating for a fifth Queensland team.

For decades, the region has been a breeding ground for NRL stars, and many locals believe a new team could achieve success on the field with the right financial support off it.

Comments made during Nine’s coverage of the Cowboys’ thrilling 35-31 victory over the Broncos saw Smith acknowledge the area’s rich football talent while urging caution among those making decisions about the league’s expansion.

“It’s an excellent spot for another team; the growth in that western corridor of Brisbane is immense,” he remarked.

“The crucial question for the NRL is whether this would stretch our talent pool too thinly.

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

“With teams 18 and 19 joining within the next two years, we might need to exercise some restraint and wait for an additional team in Brisbane.”

The CQ bid was on the table back in 2010 when David Gallop was CEO, but his departure two years later meant the plans, which included the proposed team name ‘The Miners,’ were shelved.

Expansion was subsequently delayed until the Dolphins were welcomed as the 17th team in 2023, a process championed by ARLC chairman Peter V’landys and NRL CEO Andrew Abdo.

“We are fully supportive of introducing another team in Queensland, as there’s a significant NRL bid emerging from central Queensland,” Ikin told AAP.

“Key figures in rugby league, including government representatives, have confirmed that it’s in the works.

“There’s a large group of passionate supporters up there, akin to those in the western Brisbane corridor, who would absolutely love to see an NRL team based in Rockhampton. That kind of competition is beneficial for the sport.

“Who knows? We could end up with six teams in Queensland. Just a couple of years ago, after COVID, could anyone have predicted teams in Perth and PNG? I think not.

“With the current leadership in the game, growth is a priority, given the increasing number of participants, viewers, and investments.”