LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The NRL's decision on the 18th team has caused uproar among fans, as reports suggest that Papua New Guinea is set to be granted the license.
After much debate and disagreement, the Australian Rugby League Commission is allegedly nearing the end of its search for the best host city for the new club.
A recent report claims that the competition between rival bids has turned into a "one horse race," with Papua New Guinea emerging as the clear frontrunner.
The league has been under pressure to expedite the process due to the successful entry of the Dolphins as the 17th club this year.
It appears that the temptation of a government cash injection has been too difficult for the league to resist.
NRL journalist Michelle Bishop stated, "There is so much happening behind the scenes and my mail is it's simply a one-horse race."