Sure, have 1 league, at Championship level. But it will need to be divided into 2 divisions (eg, north and south), with riders able to double up across the 2 divisions. The BSPL have already introduced this in principle with the NDL/NDT.
With 2 teams qualifying from the same group (Oxford and Poole) I would have thought it basic common sense to ensure these 2 teams did not meet again in the semi-finals. Why am I not surprised this was not done...
I'll never be a fan of the superheat. But if team managers had to choose 2 riders who hadn't ridden in heat 15, there would at least be some extra interest in that. Under the current format, heat 15 is often a re-run of heat 13, and the superheat is often a re-run of heat 15. Fans of speedway teams love their lesser-talented riders as much as their big-hitters. I would love to see some of the so-called 'second strings' take a bit of glory in a deciding race - however silly the superheat may be.
I think the Oxford management are well aware the Spires team is weak. A big name was expected to sign in the winter, but didn't. What options are available to them now? Even if they are willing to splash a bit of cash, who is available now that would make a significant difference?
It would appear a big-name rider who had indicated he would come to Oxford had a change of mind. We don't know who or why. If Oxford deserve any credit, it's for maintaining a 'dignified' silence over the identity of said rider.
I'm not a Leicester fan, but I just wanted to say a big well done to you guys for running 2 teams at ND level. Such a refreshing attitude...as compared to that of an ar**hole club like Poole.