The western rugby league picture for 2022 is set to become clearer for the region's clubs next week.
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After months of uncertainty, a draw for the Western Premiership - the Peter McDonald Premiership - is expected to be unveiled.
It is set to ease concerns of numerous clubs in Group 11 and Group 10 who have been calling for more details and confirmation of competition structure in recent times.
Fixtures were expected soon after the Western Premiership was announced by NSWRL in July, but delays have led to some clubs in both competitions getting itchy feet.
While the majority of clubs across the two competitions are in favour of the new structure, Bathurst Panthers president Dave Hotham voiced his concerns over the uncertainty.
"We are sort of still wondering how everything is going to work," Panthers president Dave Hotham said.
"It's hard to get excited about it at the moment because there is so much uncertainty with it."
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Like Hotham, Group 11 clubs also raised concerns when they met last weekend
At that Group 11 meeting, Nyngan, Narromine, and Wellington all raised opposition to the Western Premiership plan.
In the week leading up to the meeting the presidents at both Nyngan and Narromine stated the majority of people within their clubs didn't want to take part in the new competition.
Following Sunday's meeting, which reportedly was "heated at times", Group 11 president Bob Walsh said "I can't make any comment on what's going on because I don't know."
With that uncertainty growing, Walsh spoke to NSWRL Community Rugby League Manager Peter Clarke and NSWRL chief executive David Trodden this week.
Walsh confirmed the draw is expected next week and he's hopeful the step forward for the competition will appease a number of clubs and help them plan for the 2022 season.
Walsh also confirmed the players points cap announced by NSWRL last month will be used next season.
The Player Points Index System gives players a numerical value and each first grade team is only able to field a side worth 100 points.
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Nick Guthrie
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
