Sam Tomkins’ decision to commit himself to Wigan has been hailed as a major shot in the arm for English rugby league – but also brought the salary cap into sharp focus once again.

Super League clubs met in Harrogate yesterday and the likes of Wigan and Warrington were expected to push for an increase in the £1.7 million cap, which offers stability but comes at a price.

Many clubs do not have the financial flexibility, or indeed muscle, to ward off predators from rugby union or the NRL.

The salary cap for Aviva Premiership clubs is around £4.5million and the NRL cap will rise dramatically to around £4.64 million in 2013.

Wigan had to make Tomkins the highest-paid player in Super League to persuade him to sign a new five-year contract that will keep him at the club through the 2016 season.

The deal also stipulates that Tomkins must not speak to rugby union or NRL clubs in the wake of brother Joel’s move to Saracens on Monday.

While the wealthier Super League sides are thought to be pushing the RFL for an increase in the cap in order to keep the game’s top players, plenty of clubs are keen not to over-reach themselves.

Bradford, let it be remembered, spent heavily in their pursuit of success and are still feeling the effects – on and off the field.

Bulls coach Mick Potter reckons Tomkins has made the right decision in staying put in Super League.

He said: “Sam is a fantastic player and it would have been a shame had he gone to rugby union.

“He could equip himself well in either code – he’s elusive, fast and skilful but I’m not sure whether union would have suited him.

“It might have been easier for him. I think playing full back in rugby league is a harder option than playing full back or in the centres in rugby union where his contribution maybe wouldn’t have been so great.”