The player pool depth debate

[Perth Red]

How many more Fijian and PNG born NRL players are there now compared to say 10 years ago?

I'd have to say there would be at least 5-10 more getting regular game time. Also there are plenty from these 2 countries either in the Juniors or development contracts (QLD/NSW Cup), so the potential is there for the numbers to explode in coming years.

That is without any real development plan at all.

But I imagine you could have 30 Fijians and 30 PNGians playing NRL and this arguement would still exist until no team comes last and all players are future immortals. It's just a convenient excuse.

it’s a convenient excuse as it is totally unmeasurable. It is impossible to say if there is or isnt enough talent available as it isnt quantifiable in any meaningful way.

 

[MrE_Assassin]

Looks like a lot of grass roots competitions are starting to suspend or even abandon the entire season for 2020. (I for one was looking forward to lacing up the boots and going around again)

With that, I start to wonder what the impact will be for future numbers in the game, not just at the cusp of the NRL but right through. I know that one season away from the game could mean a lot of kids/teens don't return to the game the following year. I'm sure it would just be a blip on the radar as far NRL depth but it could be a huge impact for participation numbers in 2021 and beyond.

 

[MrE_Assassin]

NRL has announced all grasss roots on hiatus.

https://www.nrl.com/news/2020/03/16/nrl-coronavirus-news-updates/

 

[Perth Red]

Looks like a lot of grass roots competitions are starting to suspend or even abandon the entire season for 2020. (I for one was looking forward to lacing up the boots and going around again)

With that, I start to wonder what the impact will be for future numbers in the game, not just at the cusp of the NRL but right through. I know that one season away from the game could mean a lot of kids/teens don't return to the game the following year. I'm sure it would just be a blip on the radar as far NRL depth but it could be a huge impact for participation numbers in 2021 and beyond.

All sports are going to be in the same boat so I doubt it will make any difference.