Why Leeds Rhinos chief believes relegation from Super League 'may' be suspended

Leeds Rhinos chief executive Gary Hetherington believes relegation could be unfair if the “integrity” of the competition has been altered by the coronavirus layoff.
By Peter Smith
Published 15th Jul 2020, 17:00 BST
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Betfred Super League will resume on Sunday, August 2, but teams in the Championship and League One have still to decide if they will compete again in 2020.

They have made it clear they are unwilling to play behind closed doors, but some want to keep the possibility of a resumption open in case crowds are permitted later this year.

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The Championship Grand Final winners are due to be promoted, replacing the team finishing bottom of Super League, but a shortened season has thrown that into doubt, even if the second tier does restart.

Richie Myler scores for London Broncos at last year's Magic Weekend. Broncos were relegated after finishing bottom of Super League. Picture by Alex Whitehead/SWpix.comRichie Myler scores for London Broncos at last year's Magic Weekend. Broncos were relegated after finishing bottom of Super League. Picture by Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
Richie Myler scores for London Broncos at last year's Magic Weekend. Broncos were relegated after finishing bottom of Super League. Picture by Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com

Hetherington insisted: “It’s not a simple black and white decision, but if the competition’s integrity has been significantly changed - and there’s a lot of evidence to say it has - then that is a reason why you may well suspend promotion and relegation for a year.

“You have got to look closely at how it has changed - there are going to be some significant changes which no one could have foreseen.”

Though the Rugby Football League has come under fire for the delay over a ruling on the lower divisions, Hetherington added: “I think the RFL are handling it pretty well, taking everything into account and I think at the end of the day, with a bit more information, they will make the right decision.”

A message from the Editor:

Rhinos chief executive Gary Hetherington. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.Rhinos chief executive Gary Hetherington. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.
Rhinos chief executive Gary Hetherington. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.
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Related topics:Super LeagueRugby Football LeagueLeague OneLeeds