Harlequins keep Super League license

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London will continue to have a Super League team after Harlequins RL were, as expected, given another three-year licence.

Club chief executive Gus Mackay welcomed the decision but confirmed that the troubled franchise will undergo a massive overhaul, which will include a new name and new colours.

MacKay said: “We are delighted to have been given another three-year Super League licence. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our staff and all the people involved in putting together our successful application.

“The hard work starts now, but we are determined to usher in a new era for professional rugby league in London. Plans are in place to boost the playing squad as well as improving the organisation overall.

It is unclear whether the revamped club will continue playing at The Stoop

“We are currently working on the development of a new brand. Next year, the team will be playing under a new name and in new colours. There are exciting times ahead for the club.”

The Rugby Football League on Tuesday announced the 14 clubs that will take part in the 2012-14 seasons.

Welsh outfit Crusaders will not play in the Super League, after withdrawing their application for a licence.

That meant a reprive for Wakefield Wildcats, who had been widely expected to lose their place among the elite to Championship side Widnes, who were granted a new license earlier this year.

Halifax had hoped to be included, but missed out.

A five-man independent board judged the franchise applications against five key criteria: commerce and marketing, finance, facilities,  governance, playing strength and player performance.