The Board of International Rugby League (IRL) has received presentations from members and from the IRL COVID-19 Response Committee (CRC) which comprises chair, Greg Barclay, deputy chairs, Graeme Thompson and Troy Grant, independent director, Emma Young and CEO, Nigel Wood.

Based upon the information received, IRL is actively working with members and other interested parties to find the best and most viable solutions to the various and sometimes competing problems.

IRL Chair, Greg Barclay summed up the discussions saying;

“We have been in regular dialogue with the members throughout this period of uncertainty. Clearly, each nation is at a different stage in the whole process and everyone is trying to plan for the best possible outcome. The CRC allows us to be nimble in our responses as we all seek the best financial and commercial outcomes and promptly maximise opportunities that arise.

“The planned 2020 international calendar was set to be the biggest programme ever with the Oceania Cup, European Championships, MEA Championship and Americas Championship. The full programme is being reviewed by IRL and its confederations, Asia Pacific Rugby League and Rugby League European Federation.”

The Board also heard updates on the development of a new governing body in Tonga and considered further policies around the eligibility of players.

A physical disability sub-committee has been created to manage the codification of rules globally and Peter Beattie was appointed to the IRL Board as one of the Asia Pacific Rugby League representatives, replacing Todd Greenberg.

The next meeting which was scheduled to take place in Toronto has been cancelled due to travel restrictions.