Super League votes for powers 'to stop controversial signings'

Super League chiefs voted unanimously on Wednesday for more powers to stop future controversial signings after rugby league club Catalans Dragons snapped up Israel Folau.

The issue of the dual-code international, who was sacked by Australian rugby union chiefs over his highly publicised homophobic views, dominated business at a routine meeting of sides in the northern English city of Salford.

After a four-hour meeting delegates emerged without comment, leaving Super League's executive chairman Robert Elstone to issue a statement.

"Super League has clearly and consistently outlined its position on Israel Folau," it said.

"With the season under way, we now feel it is important for Super League to separate what is an off-field matter from what is happening on the field.

"The Super League board accepts the legalities around the RFL's (Rugby Football League's) decision to register Israel Folau and the board has voted unanimously to put in place measures that ensure the Super League has greater authority to stop controversial signings such as this in the future.

"As a sport, we have an impressive and enviable track record when it comes to equality, diversity and inclusion and we will...