Rugby League Today: NRL to trial rule changes, more have their say on Toronto plus inspirational Mose Masoe
What’s on site
Fans can’t return to stadiums due to concerns over mass gatherings going towards and leaving the grounds before and after matches.
Castleford winger James Clare is the first guest on a new series of videos, where we sit down with players past and present to talk about their rugby league story.
Sky Sports presenter Brian Carney says Toronto Wolfpack have been prejudged, and is backing for them to stay in Super League.
New Wigan signing Brad Singleton has become the latest to lend his support to the Wolfpack’s plight and backed their return to Super League, as d-day nears.
Ray Mour’s back for the midweek Off the Record gossip column.
What’s on social
If this doesn’t inspire you, nothing will.
Mose Masoe takes his first steps unaided just eight months after suffering a serious spinal injury and being told he'd be lucky to walk again. Just incredible! here and see more on @Calendar at 6. pic.twitter.com/xcJdFlL4x1
— Arif Ahmed (@ArifAhmedITV) September 23, 2020
A referee in the NRL is being forced to hang up his whistle – they’re human too.
For most of my life I’ve watched my Dad out on the field refereeing NRL, on Saturday I will watch him out there for the last time ever. So proud of what you’ve achieved Dad and I’ll keep being proud of everything you will achieve after footy. We love you. pic.twitter.com/TliSlXfdIK
— Shante Badger (@ShanteCatherine) September 23, 2020
Bodene Thompson is another to back Toronto.
Ahead of a massive decision for @superleague and @TOwolfpack we caught up with Rhinos forward Bodene Thompson who made a passionate case for the side to return in 2021
➡ Watch in full here https://t.co/1FZuAbjAcd pic.twitter.com/hVZoURUjov
— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) September 23, 2020
What’s in the papers
The NRL are to trial yet more rule changes in matches that are dead rubbers in their final round this weekend, reports The Guardian. They will limit the use of scrums, minimise stoppages for bunker referrals and offside penalties will result in set restarts.
Nice human story in The Mirror about the squash rivalry between Leeds coach Richard Agar and Hull KR counterpart Tony Smith.
Castleford coach Daryl Powell has hit out in the Yorkshire Post at the lack of protection from officials for his half-backs, as Danny Richardson has joined Jake Trueman on the sidelines, as well as recent stand-in stand-off Peter Matau’tia.
Birthdays
Great Britain and St Helens legend Sean Long, now working in rugby union, celebrates his 44th birthday today (September 24)
Also celebrating: Leeds back-rower Alex Mellor (26); Jamaica international Ross Peltier (28); infamous ex-Wigan winger Desi Williams (35); former St Helens coach Mick Potter (57)
What’s on TV/radio
6pm – Live Super League: Hull v Salford – Sky Sports Arena/Mix
8.15pm – Live Super League: Castleford v Huddersfield – Sky Sports Arena/Mix
Trivia
Mick Potter won the Dally M medal in 1984 and 1991 during his playing career.
