Leeds Rhinos chief expects Super League clubs to survive 2020 - but tough times are ahead

But he has warned of significant cuts next year as the fall out from coronavirus continues to lash rugby league.

Super League, the Rugby Football League (RFL) and broadcaster Sky yesterday confirmed they have reached an agreement over this season’s television revenues.

Clubs will receive their 2020 Sky money in full, with the broadcaster taking a rebate next year, the final season of the current deal.

The amount has not been confirmed, but clubs are understood to be facing a £280,000 cut in their 2021 Sky handout.

Sky could have insisted on recouping their losses this season, but that would have left clubs - already cash-strapped by three months of no matches - in a critical state.

Hetherington praised Sky’s “helpful” approach and said it will help with planning for the next 18 months.

“We have been looking at budgets since day one and, of course, they are a continually moving feast,” Hetherington said. “But as we get more certainty, we can add more certainty to the budgets.

“If you look at 2020, what has helped all clubs is the cuts to salaries that have been accepted voluntarily by all players and staff and cuts to other services as well. Also the government’s furlough scheme - which has been a Godsend - and the government’s provision of a loan via the RFL, which we will certainly be taking advantage of.

“Those factors combined will ensure the survival of all Super League clubs in 2020.”

But the Leeds chief admitted tough times lie ahead.

“The impact on all Super League clubs’ businesses will be felt heavily in 2021,” he admitted.

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