The WCS will definitely go ahead with two matches in 2018, despite an already packed summer schedule that includes the season-ending Rugby League World Cup. It is understood the Broncos are again keen to be involved, particularly if it can be staged at their home ground, Suncorp Stadium. The highest attendance for the game was in Brisbane in 1994 when 54,220 witnessed Wigan upset NRL premiers Brisbane.

South Sydney have also expressed an interest in participating and would like to host the English clubs at ANZ Stadium.

There were fears the concept was in danger of being scrapped after the Australian teams dominated the first two times it was expanded to include additional games. However, Wigan's win over premiers Cronulla and Warrington's defeat of Brisbane in the most recent contests have breathed new life into the format.

The fixture is a big deal for English clubs, who are amenable to the prospect of travelling to Australia to test themselves against the NRL's best.

Super League boss Nigel Wood confirmed the event could return to Australia for the first time in four years or even be taken to a new location to grow the game.

"The Super League clubs are open-minded about how and when to stage it," Wood said.

"There is certainly the possibility of it being played in either of the two heartlands or, indeed, in a different location offshore, so to speak. All options are open.

"The World Club Series has grown significantly and with the Super League clubs winning last year it has added credibility.

"The discussions between the Super League and the NRL are continuing and are at a fairly advanced stage."

Wood, who is also the chairman of the Rugby League International Federation, is involved in several other initiatives aimed at boosting the game globally. Officials will consider the prospect of forming Great Britain teams, with more flexible eligibility laws allowing the likes of Scottish internationals Lachlan Coote and Peter Wallace joining the Poms.

"In theory, there's no reason why not," Wood said.

"The RLIF would have to decide that in consultation with Scotland and Ireland."

There are also plans afoot to stage a World Nines, a concept Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga is a big fan of.

Cronk a Panther?

Penrith is shaping as the most likely destination for Cooper Cronk if he plays on next year.

The Panthers are poised to release Te Maire Martin to the Warriors, leaving promising youngster Nathan Cleary without an established halves partner. Bryce Cartwright has been filling in at No.6, but his long-term future is in the back row.

Penrith powerbrokers have never really been sold on Martin - officials secretly sounded out Ben Hunt about a shift to the foot of the mountains before he ultimately signed with St George Illawarra. Now that Martin is on the move, the Panthers - if they shed enough players to create the salary cap space required - are the only Sydney club still in need of a big-name playmaker.

Cronk, who has rubbished suggestions he will be switching to rugby, would instantly make Penrith the team to beat if he was to join them next year. Melbourne have missed out on Anthony Milford, Kieran Foran and Martin in their quest to replace him. If Adam Reynolds was to somehow become available, the Storm would be more than willing to nab him in exchange for Cronk.

Scare for Ridell family

Mark Riddell has urged all parents to get first aid training after a health scare involving his four-month-old daughter, Ava.

Ava has been in and out of hospital while battling bronchitis, but things got really scary when she experienced a coughing attack that provoked vomiting on Monday. She ended up losing consciousness and stopped breathing, prompting a frantic triple-0 call. Thankfully, Ava is now on the mend after being rushed to hospital.

"As she now recovers I thought I should share the story, not for sympathy, we are all OK and our Ava will make a full recovery," Riddell wrote on Instagram.

"The reason is that after talking with Karli we both thought it best that we up-skill and get our first aid certificates, me to update mine and Karli to get hers. If you have young kids, seriously think about making sure one of you have it!

"If this helps one family not have to deal with what we went through Monday night then that's a win."

They never learn

Which NRL superstar is risking his career and reputation with his wild cocaine-fuelled antics? The Test star has narrowly avoided being busted during two huge drug-addled nights on the town. Those close to him fear it's only a matter of time before he's exposed if he doesn't mend his ways.

Eels head back to court

Parramatta is embroiled in yet another legal dispute after its stoush with a fundraising firm become a Supreme Court matter.

The Eels are at loggerheads with Footy Fundraisers, a Victorian-based company they had engaged to help run raffles and other fundraising initiatives. Footy Fundraisers has done lots of work in the AFL space but their foray into the NRL has resulted in the Eels attempting to wind up the company.

"We are declining to comment as it is a legal matter," a Parramatta spokesperson said.

The Eels are also in Supreme Court battles with former sponsor Dyldam and former player Brett Horsnell, who is suing the club over its handling of his concussions during his stint in the blue and gold.

Blast from the past

After 87 years in the wilderness, foundation club Glebe Dirty Reds are back.

Controversially axed from the NSWRL in 1929, Glebe formed a joint venture with Concord Burwood to field a Ron Massey team, which marked its comeback against fellow foundation club Wests Magpies at Leichhardt Oval on Saturday.

The Dirty Reds, as they became known due to the colour of their jerseys, are now planning to launch a Sydney Shield side as well.

Phil Gould was a guest speaker at the club's relaunch function last week, which was attended by representatives of the famous Burge, McKivat and Gray clans.

Rabbits chase great Dane

South Sydney are making a serious play for Newcastle centre Dane Gagai in a move that could have implications for Alex Johnston.

Johnston is off contract at the end of the season and is looking to sign a deal with a club that will give him a crack at fullback, with a pay packet that comes with the position. However, Souths believe Johnston is a winger and are keen on Gagai, knowing he can slot into the No.1 jersey if Greg Inglis goes back into the centres next year.

Gagai has an option in his favour to remain in Newcastle next year but has several clubs throwing big dollars at him. The Rabbitohs would ideally like to sign him and Johnston, although the latter will have to lower his income expectations if he is to remain at Redfern.

Bite charge thrown out

A biting allegation is the sort of incident that would normally ensure a media-packed judiciary hearing, but this one flew under the radar.

Newcastle under-20s player Mitchell Andrews was charged with dangerous contact and referred straight to the judiciary for allegedly biting Gold Coast opponent Rory Lillis in round nine.

For the record, Andrews was found not guilty.

Yep, league's a funny old game

They are a bunch of funsters out Redfern way. South Sydney skipper Sam Burgess shows us why Russell Crowe dubbed him the "sparkly eyed man" during coach Michael Maguire's post-game interview with Brad Fittler.

The "sparkly-eyed" Sam Burgess. Photo: Channel Nine

Power and glory: Mal Meninga and honorary Raider prime minister Bob Hawke in 1990. Photo: Richard Briggs

From the vault

Here's a pic of the most influential man in Canberra. The other bloke in the photo is prime minister Bob Hawke. Big Mal Meninga is here seen receiving some tips before embarking on his own political career.

The headline you don't want to read

"New Manly CEO has the full support of the board"

There was only going to be one outcome when Manly chief executive Tim Cleary took on club legend Bob Fulton. The Sea Eagles are now on the lookout for their ninth chief executive in the post-Northern Eagles era. And you thought coaching was a cut-throat business.