Warrington Wolves coach Tony Smith believes that rugby league's ambitious overhaul will "hurt a few clubs".

Under the new format introduced, as many as 12 Super League teams could face relegation, with four Championship sides waiting to take their place in the top flight.

"I think it will probably reduce the number of clubs over the long run," Smith is quoted as saying by the Daily Star. "It will hurt a few clubs.

"There's excitement for some people who love change but other people are a bit fearful of what its effects could be. I am probably in the second category. I am sceptical about the effects."

The new Super League season gets underway on February 5.