Only In Rugby League Podcast

The Management Group has spent considerable time reviewing the first season of the National League, taking into account feedback received directly from clubs, the challenges experienced throughout the season and the overall development of the competition. We have been keen to listen to clubs and take their views into account when considering the structure for next season, while also recognising the importance of establishing a sustainable competition with a clear pathway for progression. Approach to the 2027 structure The National League was introduced in 2026, with clubs allocated to divisions as part of the implementation of the new competition structure. Following the first season, the Management Group has reviewed the arrangements for 2027, taking into account the established promotion and relegation criteria, feedback received directly from clubs and the practical challenges identified during the season. We recognise that progression brings additional challenges for some clubs, particularly around travel, costs and the commitments involved. The Management Group has therefore considered the individual circumstances raised by clubs and, where appropriate, made adjustments while maintaining the overall balance of the competition. These adjustments have been considered in the context of the first season of the new structure and should not be interpreted as clubs having the option to choose which division they compete in. Promotion and relegation remain fundamental to the National League, and we need to establish a clear and consistent approach that allows clubs to understand and plan for progression. We also recognise that further work is needed to address the practical challenges associated with moving through the competition structure, and this will form part of our ongoing discussions with clubs. Main changes for 2027 National Premier Division The Premier Division remains at 12 teams. Dewsbury Celtic and East Leeds are promoted from Division One, with Heworth and Rochdale Mayfield relegated to Division One. National Division One Division One remains at 12 teams, with Heworth and Rochdale Mayfield joining from the Premier Division and Featherstone Lions promoted from National Conference – Yorkshire B. Following consideration of the circumstances raised by Ince Rose Bridge and Blackbrook, the Management Group agreed that both clubs would remain in National Conference – North West for 2027. Wigan St Patricks will move into National Conference – North West following consideration of their failure to fulfil a fixture during the 2026 season. This move has been discussed with the club and has their support. As part of the resulting adjustments to the structure, Pilkington Recs and Oldham St Annes retain their places in Division One. National Conference – North West The division will comprise 10 teams for 2027. West Bank Bears are promoted from the North West Men's League, while Woolston Rovers are relegated to the regional competition. Ince Rose Bridge and Blackbrook retain their places, with Wigan St Patricks joining from Division One. National Conference – Cumbria The division will remain at 10 teams for 2027. Wath Brow Hornets A are promoted from the Cumbria Men's League, while Ulverston are relegated. Following consideration of the circumstances raised by Askam regarding promotion, the Management Group agreed that Hindpool Tigers would retain their place in the division. National Conference – Yorkshire A and Yorkshire B Both divisions will remain at 10 teams for 2027. Featherstone Lions are promoted to Division One, while Stanley Rangers and Normanton Knights are relegated to the Yorkshire Men's League. Doncaster Toll Bar, Ossett Trinity Tigers and Dodworth Miners are promoted from the Yorkshire Men's League. The Management Group also supported rebalancing the two divisions primarily based on 2026 playing performance, whilst also taking geographical considerations into account. Both divisions will continue to operate at the same level, with neither division considered higher than the other. National Conference – South The division will comprise six teams for 2027. North Herts Crusaders and Brentwood Eels will move into the London & East League, with no additional clubs joining the division. Further details on the competition format will be communicated separately. What do you think? Drop your thoughts in the comments — we’ll discuss it in more detail on next week’s podcast. Please share this with all your club members and follow us for the most comprehensive coverage of the NCRL! 📷