Rugby league shut down until April 3

By Peter Smith
Published 16th Mar 2020, 17:46 BST
Updated 16th Mar 2020, 18:01 BST
Leeds Rhinos and other clubs will be off the field until at least April 3. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.Leeds Rhinos and other clubs will be off the field until at least April 3. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.
Leeds Rhinos and other clubs will be off the field until at least April 3. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe. | jpimedia
The Rugby Football League and Super League Europe have announced a suspension of fixtures, initially until  April 3.

The governing bodies say the season’s structure and fixture rescheduling will be considered during that time.

The shut down, due to the coronavirus pandemic, follows the latest government advice regarding social contact and mass gatherings.

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Super League clubs discussed a range of contingency plans with the RFL at a board meeting in Huddersfield on Monday.

Women's Super League has also been suspended. Picture by Steve Riding.Women's Super League has also been suspended. Picture by Steve Riding.
Women's Super League has also been suspended. Picture by Steve Riding. | freelance

A statement from Super League said the situation will be reviewed with broadcasters and sponsors throughout the initial suspension.

Championship, League One, Betfred Women’s Super League and the community game will also go on hold for the same period.

The RFL are set for further discussions at meetings of Championship and League One clubs and community board over the next couple of days.

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A joint statement from Robert Elstone, the executive chairman of Super League Europe, and Ralph Rimmer, chief executive of the Rugby Football League, said: “These are unprecedented times, and they present significant financial and commercial implications for rugby league, which will be further considered during the period of suspension.

Wakefield's games against Toronto and Wigan have been postponed. Picture by Tony Johnson.Wakefield's games against Toronto and Wigan have been postponed. Picture by Tony Johnson.
Wakefield's games against Toronto and Wigan have been postponed. Picture by Tony Johnson. | jpimedia

“Super League is also an international competition and consideration has to be given to our clubs in Canada and France, particularly around travel restrictions and scheduling fixtures.

“Player welfare and maintaining the integrity of the competition are key concerns moving forward.

"Equally our responsibilities to rugby league communities remain front of mind for all of us.

“The whole country is facing major challenges and the support of our fans, partners and stakeholders is needed now more than ever before.”

Related topics:Rugby Football LeagueLeague OneHuddersfieldFrance

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