Wakefield had been expected to fall out of the league after failing to secure a new stadium and enduring numerous financial struggles. However, Crusaders’ late withdrawal allowed Wakefield to take the 14th spot for the next three years ahead of second-tier Halifax, which had been hoping to secure the final berth in the top flight. Championship club Widnes had already been awarded a three-year licence to play in Super League.
Crusaders, formed in 2005, made impressive progress in the Championship and were fast-tracked into Super League in 2009, but the club has suffered player visa controversy, relocation from Bridgend to Wrexham in 2010, a change of owner and a spell in administration. “This has not been an easy decision but after a lengthy and exhaustive examination of the club's finances, our view is that Crusaders is not sustainable as a Super League club at this stage,” said Crusaders CEO Rod Findlay.
Rugby Football League chairman Richard Lewis told the BBC that Crusaders' decision to withdraw their application for a Super League licence was a setback to hopes of expanding the sport into Wales. However, he insisted that rugby league had “grown significantly” in the country over the past few years.
Wakefield owner Andrew Glover said that, with three years ahead of the club to deliver on its promises, the club is determined to ensure it is never at risk of expulsion again. “We put it all in our application, so it has to take place. That is absolutely what will happen,” Glover, a local double glazing firm owner who saved the club from possible liquidation in February, told the Press Association.
