Rugby League: Lewis Ainley and James Connaughton in Great Britain Police Rugby League squad

Great Britain Police Rugby League Team

Lewis Ainley and James Connaughton, who play locally for Mayfield ARLFC, have been named in the Great Britain Police Rugby League squad to play the HM Prison Service team on Thursday, 8 June, at Mayfield.

Ainley is an exciting half back or hooker and Connaughton is a hard-working prop or second row forward.

Also included in the squad is loose forward Ben Marsden, whose father Bob Marsden played for Rochdale Hornets in the 90s.

Gareth Pratt, from Littleborough, Great Britain Police Rugby League Head Coach, said: “This game is another step towards the preparation for the Great Britain Police Rugby League Team’s tour to Canada in September." 

Team manager of GB Police Rugby League, Chris Cowling said: “We are extremely grateful to the chairman of Mayfield ARLFC, Simon Howe, who, along with the club’s committee, have been very helpful over recent months providing training facilities.

“I would like to invite rugby league supporters in Rochdale to come along and support the team on Thursday night and hopefully enjoy a good game.

"The prison service team will provide a very stern test as they have some strong experienced players who will be keen to put one over on their law enforcing opposition.”

There will be a one minute silence before the game as a mark of respect for the people who have lost their lives and those who have been injured in the recent terror attacks in Manchester and London.

Kick off is 6.30pm.on Thursday, 8 June, at Mayfield Sports Centre, Chadwick Lane, Rochdale, OL11 3BY.