Import rule changes by EIHL agreed for next season

The Rapid Solicitors Elite League have made some changes to the playing rules, specifically to the rules surrounding import players, beginning from next season, 2014-15.

All EIHL clubs met this week in Hull and the outcome is that of the following changes, which were unanimously agreed upon by all present.

As from the upcoming season (2014-15), the number of non British-trained players will rise from 11 to 12, but the amount of work-permit players will remain at 11.

The number of non British-trained players will rise to 13 in season 2015-16 and 14 in season 2016-17, with the amount of work-permit players again remaining at 11.

Elite League chairman, Tony Smith, said: “The league agreed that there is a shortage of top-level British players, which keeps the Elite League from being outstanding across the 10 teams.

“With the demand of the indigenous British player higher than ever in all leagues, and with the potential for EU/dual-national players to develop into national-team players, it was felt this gradual increase would be beneficial to all.

“As with all things, the Elite League will monitor its development as we look forward to another successful season.”