LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Queensland Rugby League (QRL), in partnership with the NRL and four Queensland-based clubs (Broncos, Dolphins, Titans, and Cowboys), has launched a new NRLQ series aimed at enhancing elite development pathways for Under 20 teams.
This initiative was announced today, and is crucial for addressing the gap in development opportunities that Queensland NRL clubs face following the end of junior representative competitions, including the Mal Meninga Cup Under 19s.
The new competition is designed to provide a structured, home-and-away round robin format, allowing young talent to compete consistently.
It also seeks to create parity with New South Wales clubs, which have access to the NSWRL Jersey Flegg competition.
By facilitating this series, the QRL hopes to create better pathways for player development and improve the overall system in the future.
In an effort to integrate this competition into the broader rugby league landscape, several matches will coincide with NRL game days.
The six-round NRLQ series is set to kick off this Saturday, May 31, marking a significant step forward for player development in Queensland.