Super League start date a surprise but not an issue for Leeds Rhinos’ Kevin Sinfield

The competition announced yesterday that, given the ravaging impact of Covid-19 on the current campaign, as expected, next season will start later than normal.

Many, though, had envisaged a later kick-off date and Sinfield conceded: “It was a bit of a surprise when I saw that this morning; I think we were all still expecting it to be late March/early April.

“But I think it gives us plenty of time. It gives us the biggest pre-season we’ve had for a number of years so we get a chance to let everyone rest up and that’s not just physically.

“Mentally it’s been really tough for the players this year and they’ve had to make more sacrifices than they normally would do so this gives them a chance to refresh but we will have enough time.”

Leeds players finished a fortnight ago after their play-off exit against Catalans Dragons but the Grand Final does not occur until tonight, seven weeks later than normal.

Next season’s Grand Final will take place back at Old Trafford on October 9, around its traditional slot.

Clubs will play 13 home fixtures in a 27-game regular season and - as has eventually been the case this year - a six-team play-off format will be used.

Magic Weekend returns after being cancelled this year. It will be played at St James’ Park, Newcastle, on May 29/30.

Super League ordinarily starts around the first days of February or end of January so it is expected there will be at least two or three “Easter style” weekends next year to get the full campaign completed.

Super League executive chairman Robert Elstone said: “With our players performing at the highest level, late into November, it is important that we give our players time to recover and prepare properly for the 2021 campaign.

“Many of them will be looking to force themselves into the selection decisions for the Rugby League World Cup and pre-season will be a key part of their plans. What is also clear with the ongoing uncertainty around Covid-19 is that a later start date gives us a better chance of playing more games in front of fans in 2021.”

The Super League fixtures will be released in January.

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