NSWRL sees red over proposed changes

NSWRL boss Dave Trodden has compared the NRL's proposed pathways changes to that of the infamous Super League competition.

A new second-tier competition to be introduced in 2018 would include the merger of several Sydney clubs and the inclusion of numerous regional entities, according to News Corp Australia.

The competition would also see rival clubs juniors amalgamated into the zones, a move that is said to have angered a number of powerbrokers.

"We should have learned the lessons of Super League about what happens when rugby league communities get disenfranchised," Trodden said.

"It would be a terrible thing. By trying to reconfigure the game, we ultimately cause communities that have been involved in the game for over 100 years to no longer be part of it."

The proposed Platinum League would involve a southern (NSW) and northern (QLD) conference, with the two winners to meet on NRL grand final day.

The likes of Canterbury, St George and Sutherland would be forced to merge together in the second-tier competition, while Canberra would amalgamate with Illawarra, and Manly the Central Coast.

There would also be a New Zealand side along with a Pacific Nation team in the southern conference, while at least one match a week would be broadcast live on the Nine Network.

It would also see the abolition of the current under-20s competition, while young players could also be banned from signing a contract until they turn 19.