Are you suggesting central contracts for RL then ?

Cricket and Union give central contracts to the bulk of their International squad and although these players are allowed to return to their clubs, when there is a lull in the fixture programme, they are effectively full time players for their national team(s).

Football is the exception. However, it's is an unfair comparison due to the large number of playing nations.

We do have to work harder on establishing more League playing nations. The obvious starting points are further helping the "south seas" countries and working harder to improve France (Toulouse in SL would be a massive help) and better promoting the other home nations.

Even though The Crusaders didn't quite work, the idea was a good one.
Tapping into the Union talent pool was a good idea but, unfortunately, the lack of cash put the skids under that venture.

It's all about where the games priorities are.

If we are serious about the international game then for me, there should be an international series in the summer, Like they do in RU and NRL, and run it alongside the competitions, maybe start the season later, say March?extend the season until the end of October as it is warmer and more comfortable in October than February.
When clubs have players chosen to represent their countries, or countries of choice these days, then give their places in the team to academy/reserve squad players.

There's a difference in both physical intensity -- amateur players can very rarely hold a candle to the size, power and fitness of a pro, even at the higher amateur levels -- and also quality.

I'm increasingly coming round to the idea that professional players should be given a cap on the number of games they are allowed to play over a certain period for their own welfare. eg. no more than 25 games in any year long period.

No problems with international games all for them

But playing two games in 4 days twice, maybe 3 times a season isn't good

Imo we should lose magic weekend for next season and push back the grand final a week

Everyone is forgetting the reason the international game is weak, it is beyond the RFL,s control! The NRL don't give a toss about it & until they release players to represent their countries the whole of the pacific nations will suffer & we will have the best English players missing as well. The Aussies have consistently undermined the game out side the NRL sides even offering Aussie jumpers & state of origin to Pacific island natives