Challenge Cup decision delayed

Rugby league fans will have to wait until after the general election to find out whether the Challenge Cup will be delisted from free-to-air TV.

The government have confirmed that a decision on the proposed changes will be delayed until after the May 6 election.

The Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) had been due to make a decision in June however parliament only has until Monday to rush through legislation that is unlikely to be reversed under a change of government.

In recent months, Supporters Direct Rugby League Development Officer, Laura Harrison, has been campaigning hard against the recommendations made in the Davies Report of November 2009, believing that the removal of the competition could see future development of the game take a big hit. 

The online petition created, amassed over 1,000 signatures in just a couple of months and included star names such as Lee Briers, Martin Offiah and former New Zealand international, Robbie Paul. It was also formally recognised by the All Party Parliamentary Rugby League Group who have also been fighting the recommendations.