Incoming St Helens head coach Kevin Walters has voiced strong support for a potential partnership between the Super League and the National Rugby League (NRL). This comes after Super League clubs recently turned down a £35m investment proposal from the Australian Rugby League Commission, aimed at boosting the European competition's revenue.

Walters emphasized the positive aspects of collaboration, stating, "I don't think Super League is in need of help, that's not what I see. But I do see a great partnership between the NRL and Super League, and I feel that will benefit both parties."

He pointed out the significant presence of Australian and New Zealand players in the Super League and highlighted that support from the NRL could enhance the competition. In July, the NRL secured a groundbreaking seven-year broadcast deal worth around £400 million annually, which Walters believes could positively influence the Super League as well. "The new broadcast deal smashed all sorts of records, so it's nothing but a positive if the NRL can get involved in Super League. Both competitions will benefit highly," he added.

Walters, who previously coached the Brisbane Broncos, acknowledged the physical similarities between both leagues, noting, "Physically there's no gap. It's just possibly a little bit of the speed of the game, but the talent is certainly here."

With eleven NRL stars named in England's preliminary World Cup squad, Walters aims to help retain talent within the Super League. He believes that improving financial rewards in the league could encourage players to stay. He concluded, "I feel like Super League can lift its numbers financially for player reward, and if it is more rewarding here, I think more players will stay."

As the World Cup approaches, Walters anticipates an exceptionally competitive tournament, asserting that the English side will be formidable.