Richardson not in England for Burgess: NRL

The NRL says its head of strategy, Shane Richardson, is in England on duties for the RLIF, and not to pursue Sam Burgess.

Sam Burgess

NRL head of strategy Shane Richardson has jetted in to the UK to meet Sam Burgess (pic). (AAP)

The NRL's head of strategy, Shane Richardson, says the league won't contribute in buying Sam Burgess back to the game.

Richardson, who was reported to be in England to meet with representatives from Burgess' rugby union club Bath, says he is simply there on duties for the Rugby League International Federation.

"There will not be any money from the NRL to sign Sam Burgess, I will confirm that absolutely," Richardson told Fairfax Media. "It's bulls**t.

"I have been appointed to the RLIF board and I am here for the meeting in Paris this week.

"I am not here for any other reason and I am not involved in any negotiations to bring Sam Burgess back, although if I can help in any way I will."

While CEO David Smith announced his resignation for November 30 and has reportedly already cleared his desk, the NRL's war chest for marquee players still remains the discretion of the game's CEO.

But AAP understands the money is designed to keep a marquee player in the game, rather than to lure one back.

Burgess, who endured a disappointing World Cup campaign with England, is expected to return to Bath on Monday after being allowed time by the club to reconsider his playing future.


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Source: AAP



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