The upcoming IMG gradings are set to bring some significant changes, with a few clubs poised to experience a substantial boost in their performance scores. This year, the criteria has been adjusted, offering a maximum of six points instead of the previous five. The changes, as revealed by Love Rugby League, have shifted the focus to the most recent two seasons, with a heavier weight placed on the latest campaign.
One club that stands to benefit significantly is the York Knights. Despite their current league position of 10th, the extra point on offer and their higher league status mean their performance score is set to increase by almost a point. Every win from here on out will be crucial for York to maximize this opportunity.
Wigan Warriors, a perennial Grade A club, is also set for a substantial jump. Matt Peet's side will gain from the additional performance point and their Challenge Cup victory, which adds 0.25 points to their score. This means Wigan's score will rise by over 1.1 points, a significant boost.
In the Championship, the Midlands Hurricanes and Newcastle Thunder are also set to make substantial gains. The Hurricanes, thanks to a strong campaign, will see their performance ranking improve by over 1.2 points, moving them up the ladder. Similarly, Newcastle Thunder, currently second in the Championship, will jump up by almost 1.7 points, a massive improvement.
Oldham, too, will see a significant rise in their IMG performance score. With their League 1 finishes from 2023 and 2024 no longer factored in, and solely judged on their recent Championship seasons, their score is set to increase by over 1.6 points.
The Super League leaders, Leeds Rhinos, are another club set for a massive leap. Currently ranked first overall, Leeds will see their score increase by a whopping 1.69 points, and this could further rise if they win the Grand Final. Wakefield Trinity, the newest force in Super League, is the biggest winner, with their score set to increase by almost 1.85 points, erasing their previous Championship season and highlighting their recent Super League success.
These changes in the IMG gradings highlight the importance of recent performance and the potential for significant shifts in club rankings. It will be interesting to see how these adjustments impact the overall landscape of rugby league and the strategies employed by these clubs moving forward. Personally, I think it adds an exciting layer of complexity to the sport and will be a fascinating development to watch unfold.
