Press Release – Statement from the Scotland Rugby League Board

Since announcing our upcoming triple-header against the USA in Las Vegas last week, Scotland Rugby League (SRL) has received significant attention.

The majority of responses have been overwhelmingly positive, and we are grateful for the support shown.

However, some concerns have been raised, and while we are not obliged to respond, we wish to take this opportunity to provide clarity.

This Is Not a Publicity Stunt

The proposal for a triple-header emerged in May and has been carefully considered at every monthly board meeting since. Extensive discussions took place around the pros, cons, and viability of sending three teams. Away from the boardroom, further conversations ensured every aspect was reviewed before reaching agreement earlier this month. The paperwork was signed off only after thorough deliberation, shortly before the public announcement.

The Role of Heritage Players

Heritage players are a proud part of international rugby league, not unique to Scotland. Every player who pulls on the Scotland jersey does so with pride and commitment.
Encouragingly, the past three years have seen significant growth in the number of Scotland-based players within our junior pathways.

Thanks to the efforts of our staff, particularly at U16 and U18/19 levels, more young athletes are progressing through domestic clubs and aspiring toward higher honours. This growth is vital for the future of the game in Scotland.

To foster domestic development, we must provide clear pathways from junior to senior level. Last year, for example, our squad featured 15 domestic players and two Scotland Students in a full international fixture against the Netherlands, followed by a match against Ireland that combined domestic and pathway players with professional and semi-professional talent. We remain committed to striking the right balance between heritage and homegrown players.

Transparency Around the USA Fixtures

Some concerns have been raised regarding transparency around the men’s fixture against the USA. We have not previously discussed the game publicly, and it is unfortunate that partial information was shared privately without full context. This understandably created frustration for some.
As outlined, the fixtures in Las Vegas were subject to thorough debate at board level. While the opportunity was recognised as exciting and valuable, a number of issues required resolution before confirmation.

One key factor was cost. The tour is entirely self-funded, as SRL is not in a financial position to subsidise participation. With the U19s already committed to the European Championships in France next summer, financial feasibility had to be carefully considered.

Another key consideration was safeguarding. Differences in legislation between the USA and UK mean players under 21 cannot participate in certain team activities. To ensure full inclusivity and team cohesion, we made the difficult but necessary decision that no under-21 players will travel with the men’s team. This ruling applies only to the USA tour and is based solely on player welfare. For all other fixtures, selection remains open to eligible players of all ages.

Looking Ahead Scotland is currently ranked 22nd in the world, largely due to recent inactivity. The USA tour represents a valuable opportunity to re-establish momentum while continuing to build balance and depth in our squads.

Further international fixtures are already being explored at both “A” and full international levels, with announcements to follow in due course. We encourage players and supporters alike to remain patient as plans develop.

A Word of Thanks

We thank our players, coaches, staff, and supporters for their continued dedication to Scotland Rugby League. Anyone wishing to support our teams commercially is encouraged to contact Alistair McVicar at alistair.mcvicar@scotlandrl.com.

Together, we will continue to grow the game and strengthen Scotland Rugby League at every level.