Rugby league: Rochdale Hornets games cancelled by RFL

Rochdale Hornets logo

The Rugby Football League and Super League Europe announced yesterday (16 March) a suspension of rugby league fixtures initially until 3 April, during which time the season’s structure and fixture rescheduling will be considered.

This means that Rochdale Hornets fixtures against Workington Town on 22 March and Hunslet on 29 March will not go ahead.

This follows the latest Government advice regarding social contact and mass gatherings.

These changes will apply across all competitions including the Super League, Championship, League 1, Betfred Women’s Super League and the community game, with the RFL to have further discussions of the implications at meetings of Championship and League 1 clubs and community board over the next couple of days.

Robert Elstone, the Executive Chairman of Super League Europe, and Ralph Rimmer, CEO of Rugby Football League have released a joint statement: “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.

“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.”

After a meeting with the RFL and Championship and League 1 clubs, Rochdale Hornets Chairman Andy Mazey and CEO Steve Kerr have released a joint statement: "We would like to place on record our gratitude and thanks to the RFL who are supporting the whole sport in a period on uncertainty.

"Following advice issued by the RFL and taking into account government guidelines we are able to confirm that the players are placed on restrictive training. This means that all players will be set training schedules that will enable them to stay fit and healthy whilst the game is currently suspended.

"We are in open dialogue with the RFL and will make every effort to keep our supporters, members and sponsors updated as the situation develops.

"At a time of unprecedented uncertainty, we will all need the support of our community. We are all in this together and should work as a family. Please continue to follow government advice and stay safe, and we will be back soon."