Bradford Bulls’ interim chief executive Gary Tasker last night spoke of his hopes for the club’s future as the Rugby Football League revealed four potential buyers have been set a deadline of next Tuesday to submit detailed business plans.
Mr Tasker, who worked as the Bulls’ general manager between 1982 and 2000 and returned on a voluntary basis, admitted the club’s financial crisis had served as a “massive wake-up call”.
Yesterday the RFL, which met joint-administrator Brendan Guilfoyle, of The P&A Partnership, on Wednesday, confirmed it had received four offers for the side – believed to be from Bradford City Football Club, Bradford Park Avenue, as well as restaurant owner Omar Khan and Super League (Europe).
A meeting of Super League clubs is scheduled for next Wednesday, where the competition for next season could be decided. Mr Tasker said: “The challenge for us is to put an irresistible offer to the RFL, which is sound financially and demonstrates strong investment with quality backers.
“We’re also going to have to show strong income streams and get some big brands on board, especially from the Bradford district to work with us and enhance that plan.”
Mr Tasker said he believes potential Asian ownership could allow the Bulls to tap into the city’s multi-cultural community and make greater use of Odsal Stadium. “Odsal should be a community hub working 365 days a year for its community,” he said. “Why couldn’t we have a school or college faculty on site or a grand prix speedway event?”
RFL chief operating officer Ralph Rimmer was “optimistic” about the club’s future.
“We understand the frustration regarding the on-going process but it is vital that due diligence is carried out on all the bids and that ultimately the right owners are found for the good of the club,” Mr Rimmer said.
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