It sounds a great idea in principle. The new structure prevents promotion to the top flight, so having reserve grade sides in the 3rd tier shouldnt have any impact on the integrity, but will have a massive impact on player development with guaranteed games.

I take it these fixtures would be played at Robin Park and not the DW - although a Wigan/Saints reserve grade game would probably get a five figure crowd if it was marketed well.

From a competitive standpoint it would be great. I'm not sure the money would work though. Very few people watch reserves even if they are only being charged a fiver or getting in free with a season ticket. It's mainly just friends and family of the players. League 1 clubs are already skint, that would be a big hit for them to take.

If it was to go ahead I wouldn't be surprised to see Orrell redeveloped to accommodate the reserves and women's games.