I don't have an issue with this in theory, but theory has never been RL's problem, more the constant f**k ups in the execution part of the equation.
I don't like the idea of a draft, never have, never will, but that's a separate issue.
So when it says "Players can't sign for an NRL club until the year they turn 19" I take it that means an 18 year old can sign Jan 1st of "year X" even if his birthday is Dec 31st of that year?
It's nice to say that agents might be kept away from kids until they turn 17, but will they really? I hope there's some sort of scheme involved in this to ensure that actually happens.
KeepingTheFaith, that is always the problem with many an RL administration, they ignore the realities for their preferred theory.
I mean you could look at the agents bit as denying young players representation, which is against the law in employment matters. That part may not stand up legally.
If they plan to introduce a rookie draft, it won't stand up to any legal challenge. There is way too much case law in Australia which has ruled them restraints of trade. Considering the "sterling" job the NRL did with the Players Association on the 2016 Draw, I dare say the NRL Player's Association is not going to be in favour of this. If that is the case, 0 chance of any form of draft coming in.
As has been said, another problem, you have 36 players in your NRL squad, where do the 19 not in the game day squad play? That is probably where the NRL clubs have the biggest problem as what has been said publicly indicates that NRL clubs will have no say on those players when they are playing in the Platinum League. So the NRL are just appropriating other people's employees? No wonder NRL clubs are up in arms.
As to whom the 11 teams will be in this Platinum League, if the clubs had not been determined, they should not have included "examples" in their plans. No wonder people may have gotten the wrong end of the stick.
Regardless of motive, phasing out payments for NYC players and Under 18s players will see some of those players turn their back on rugby league. It may just cost us a few superstars who will sign with different codes who do pay them.