I don’t agree with this. We have a points limit and a limit on 8 point riders. That’s already a decent amount of equalisation of teams, and Poole aside, I think most people would greet it’s been very effective at balancing the teams this year.
One thing people also have to remember if younger riders are often more dependent on others for travel because they often aren’t old enough to drive legally. In that situation, it’s much harder for a rider based in say the south of England to commit to a club in Scotland. No one’s fault, just practicality.
What I would say is the rising star programme really belongs in the Championship rather than the Premiership and it’s a shame we don’t have that. Or maybe there could be a progression and have it in both leagues. I would also be minded towards only allowing British riders at reserve. Mario might not be a fan of that…