I agree. If a player is having a sensational year in the lower grades it's detrimental to the game that they're not able to be promoted based on that. It seems illogical to me that the NRL would implement rules that make it harder for clubs to promote exciting prospects when they're needed and in good form. Naming six development players before the season starts is illogical.
Agree wholeheartedly. Pre salary cap days anyone in the Club could be named to play. I'm a firm believer this current system, and the money in the game, and lack of other income earning education or training most players do, and the fact consequently most NRL players are so reluctant to stop playing only works to prevent up and comers getting a chance.
Gone are the days of 3 grades against a Club with the best from 3rds sitting on bench for 2nd grade then best from 2nds sitting on bench for 1sts. An 18 year old guy who went well in 3rds could be given a chance in 1sts...maybe getting a run in back end of a game. A just reward for a good game in 3rds. Didn't happen often but could happen.
Pathways of kids coming through are so restricted now. Top 30 and older players hanging on past their used by date means lowest % of third graders now make it to NRL level than ever before. This is a fact.