Leeds Rhinos chief's rugby league rallying cry

The sport at all levels, from Betfred Super League to the community game, has been suspended until at least Friday, April 3 in what the Leeds chief described as an “unprecedented” situation.

“The overriding message is cometh the hour, cometh the people of rugby league,” Hetheringtoin said.

“It is a time for them to come together and show their support for the game, whichever club they support and do whatever’s best for the game.

“The game has never faced a challenge like this, but I think we as a sport have got the characteristics to succeed.”

Though Rhinos are in better health than many clubs, Hetherington admitted the next few weeks, without income from match days, will be a challenge.

He said: “We have developed a strong and very diverse business.

“We’ve got a hotel, banqueting and a whole host of other sectors to our business, but all those could well be affected as well.

“We have just put a huge investment into the stadium facilities, which was a challenge in itself and we have come through it pretty well.

“Our challenge now is to maintain the strength of our business and our culture as well.

“I think we are strong in both departments and our challenge is to come through and maintain that.

“That’s why we are dependent on the patience and support of our stakeholders, our fans, sponsors and everybody that’s got a connection with us.

“We are very dependent on each other.”