Nell: Import rule could hinder British development

Swindon Wildcats head coach Aaron Nell has admitted the new EPL regulation, permitting sides to ice an additional import, could come at the detriment of up and coming home grown players.

The new rule also stipulates that three UK trained hockey players are on the ice at any given time during play.

The move aims to shake up the EPL and gives teams lower down the pecking order the chance to become competitive once more.

Upon hearing the news, head coach Aaron Nell told the Wildcats' official website: "I think it is maybe what is needed but it's obviously not right - it would be better if it was four imports."

Nell then went on to reason the decision, admitting the development did show progression for the league as a collective, and so is likely to boost the entertainment value as a whole.

"Having five imports will help the teams at the bottom end of the league because there isn't many British players out there right now, so it will help them and hopefully it can make the league a little bit more entertaining and better to watch," said Nell.

Ultimately though, the decision to adopt the new rule could mean clubs opt to look for overseas talent as a solution as opposed to the British players looking to make their break into the sport.

Nell said: "It makes it a little bit easier recruitment wise but, again, I don't think it is the right way to go as a league.