League: Selwyn leaves, Selwyn arrives

Selwyn Pearson is set to stand down as New Zealand Rugby League chairman at next month's AGM.

Pearson still has two years to run on his present tenure but it's understood he's ready to relinquish the position after five years at the helm.

Former Kiwis halfback and coach Gary Freeman indicated last year he would be interested in having a crack at becoming NZRL chairman but deputy chairman Selwyn Bennett is tipped to take over, with chairman of selectors Keith Pittman moving up to vice-chairman.

Pearson has had a largely successful tenure, and he will leave on a high after the Kiwis' memorable victory in last year's Tri-Nations.

He took over from Gerald Ryan in 2001 with the NZRL in a difficult position financially but they have posted profits in the past three years to leave the game in a stable position.

Meanwhile, nine out of the 10 stadiums approached have expressed an interest in hosting one of this year's three Tri-Nations' test.

The NZRL asked for expressions of interest from 10 stadiums across the country, with only Tauranga indicating they were unlikely to be able to work any of the dates into their calendar.

The national body is looking to build on the profile of the game after last year's Tri-Nations success and can be expected to schedule two games outside of Auckland. Wellington and Christchurch loom as the most likely options because of the size of the venues and population base to draw on.

Carisbrook, Jade Stadium, Westpac Stadium, New Plymouth's Yarrow Stadium, Rotorua International Stadium, Waikato Stadium, Ericsson Stadium, Eden Park and North Harbour Stadium are keen to host a game in the tournament involving New Zealand, Australia and Great Britain in October and November. A decision should be made next month.

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Cullen Sports could tie up a deal to secure the NZRL's 10 per cent shareholding in the Warriors as early as next week.

The two groups have been discussing the shares for almost six months, with the NZRL hoping to recoup the money they have poured into the club over the past six years since Cullen Sports took a majority shareholding.

It would leave Cullen Sports, owned by millionaires Eric Watson and Mark Hotchin, with an 85 per cent shareholding in the club. Power Jaber own the remaining 15 per cent.

- HERALD ON SUNDAY