NRL CEO Dave Smith answers your questions

After a thrilling start to the 2014 Telstra Premiership, NRL CEO Dave Smith has taken to Twitter to answer your questions relating to the game's big issues.

Mr Smith has tackled everything from expansion of the competition, international rugby league, fixed scheduling, women's participation and NRL games in regional areas.

Following are his responses to just some of the many questions that were received:

On crowd attendances thus far in 2014...

Great crowds for easter and anzac, 1m so far this season, weather a big challenge and we need better stadiums @reallukearcuri

— Dave Smith (@DaveSmithNRL) April 30, 2014

On expansion of the competition...

@NRL @DaveSmithNRL Can we get an update on when/if there will be any expansion teams added to the #NRL? #AskDaveNRL

— ZeroTackle.com (@zerotackle) April 30, 2014

thx committed to look at expansion at end 2014. A lot of factors to consider. Grown state, participation & touch already@zerotackle @NRL

— Dave Smith (@DaveSmithNRL) April 30, 2014

Just introduced heavy sanctions for dangerous throws. Shoulder charge is out, player safety is what its all about @Chris_Setefano

— Dave Smith (@DaveSmithNRL) April 30, 2014

On fixed scheduling...

Schedule is a major focus to get best outcomes. Balance of giving our fans certainty and meeting the broadcast obligations @MercurialMattyV

— Dave Smith (@DaveSmithNRL) April 30, 2014

On biggest issue facing the game...

more an opportunity than a problem given growth ambition want to ensure accountability & consistency across the game, work to do @timyeatman

— Dave Smith (@DaveSmithNRL) April 30, 2014

On playing NRL games in regional areas...

I'm hearing the town's excited for #CvC, can't wait to get down there @kellie_drew bush footy is strong, want to share games across NSW,

— Dave Smith (@DaveSmithNRL) April 30, 2014

On standard of refereeing...

Refs have tough, important job, decisions always debated. Todd developing high perfomance systems @AJT1982 @brisbanebroncos @AllianzStadium

— Dave Smith (@DaveSmithNRL) April 30, 2014

On participation of women in rugby league...

I hope so women and touch football r the biggest growth areas @AusJillaroos are amazing athletes and WC winners @touchfootyaus @Bexly1 @NRL

— Dave Smith (@DaveSmithNRL) April 30, 2014

On skill and athleticism of modern players...

Love your passion @ROBUNS players like @greg_inglis make it all happen

— Dave Smith (@DaveSmithNRL) April 30, 2014