Rugby League: Trinity plan ahead despite cash worries

WAKEFIELD TRINITY still do not how they are to be funded in the Super League, despite a meeting of the Rugby League in Salford yesterday. Trinity are worried about affording a competitive Super League side, and their finances in 2000, should they survive among the elite next season, writes Dave Hadfield.

League officials described the situation as "very delicate" and "hanging on the goodwill of other agencies". That could indicate an appeal to the Super League, which has so far refused to finance its new member from the Sky contract cash.

With the start of Super League less than three months away, Trinity's plans are therefore uncertain, although some decisions have been made.

They have released one of last season's overseas players, the Australian winger, Josh Bostock, have offered new contracts to Andy Fisher, Francis Stephenson and Sean Richardson, and are interested in two Sheffield players, Martin Wood and Nick Pinkney, as well as three Australians, likely to be from the now defunct Adelaide and Gold Coast clubs.

The Rugby League may this week announce the venue for the Challenge Cup finals in 2000 and 2001, when Wembley will be in the middle of rebuilding. Likely candidates are Twickenham, Murrayfield, Hampden and the new national stadium in Cardiff.