NZRL chairman Reon Edwards: We are working with NRL clubs on player access

New Zealand Rugby League chairman Reon Edwards says the board are in talks with NRL clubs over access to players for their mid-season Test against England in Denver.

It was confirmed in February that New Zealand would face England in a one-off mid-season Test in June at Denver Broncos’ Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver, United States.

But reports have recently emerged overseas, claiming a host of NRL clubs and the Rugby League Players Association are unhappy about their players featuring in the historic Test.

According to Australian reports, several NRL sides and the RLPA are concerned about insurance issues for the travelling players as well as the high altitude of the game in the United States.

England coach Wayne Bennett and NRL based England players released a statement in support of the Test going ahead on Monday. England doctor Chris Brookes has also said there are no concerns for high altitude sickness in Denver.

But Edwards admitted the NZRL are still trying to convince NRL clubs to allow players to leave for international duty.

He said: “The Test has been scheduled in the internationally agreed window, so we’re now just working with the clubs in Australia to ensure we put the best possible team on the field.”