Rugby League Today: Super League fixture delay, players pay cut latest & mad kits

James Gordon

We know how you feel, Tony.

What’s on site

Luke Thompson is set to become the latest Englishman to make his NRL debut for the Bulldogs this weekend – read Zach Holland’s preview of the upcoming NRL weekend.

It’s been a long few months of lockdown, especially in furlough, but good to see that the My Set of Six feature has attracted a number of great guests, including players, past players, administrators and fans.

Regan Grace, the St Helens and Wales winger, is the latest player to answer the six questions.

Other recently featured are Catalans and England full-back Sam Tomkins, Wigan’s superstar signing John Bateman and Castleford captain Michael Shenton.

James Graham is back from Australia and ready to get going again with St Helens – doesn’t look like he’s brought the weather with him.

There may be uncertainty over the lower league season right now, but Rochdale are still looking ahead to 2021 – with captain Sean Penkywicz committing to play on for another year.

What’s on social

Czech side the Mad Squirrels have launched their kit for the new EuroXIIIs competition, and it’s a belter.

We can but dream, Gav.

Keep an eye out for this classic over the weekend.

All the best to St Helens and England women’s player Faye Gaskin, who has fought back from injury.

What’s in the papers

They were expected at the start of this week, but it looks like we’ll have to wait a little longer for the release of the Super League fixtures – which have been delayed due to unforeseen circumstances, as reported in Wigan Today.

Players’ association chief Garreth Carvell wants a ban on clubs making big money signings, reports The Mirror, until talks are completed regarding pay cuts for existing players.

Also in The Mirror, one man who will have a keen eye on the fixture list is interim Hull coach Andy Last, who has been in charge for more than 100 days, but is still yet to take charge of his first game following the departure of Lee Radford.

Birthdays

Flying winger Rob Worrincy celebrates his 35th birthday today (July 9th). Now at Dewsbury, he’s scored plenty of tries at Championship level for Halifax and Sheffield.

Also celebrating: Warrington and Ireland centre Toby King (24); Scotland international Brett Carter (32); former Halifax and Hull back-rower Shayne McMenemy (44).

The late Quentin Pongia, who sadly passed away in 2019, would have turned 50 today.

What’s on TV/radio

10.50am – Live NRL: North Queensland v Sydney Roosters – Sky Sports Arena

The legendary Johnny Whiteley MBE recalls Great Britain’s last Ashes win over Australia, some 50 years, on the latest BBC 5 Live Rugby League podcast.

Martin Offiah discusses his experience of racism in rugby league, in another cutting podcast on the BBC.

Our man Dave Parkinson has been busy with the 13 Pro-Am podcast, flying the flag for the community game and more.

Trivia

Great Britain have lost the last 13 Ashes series – the last took place in 2003. It was due to return this autumn with England, until the coronavirus pandemic caused its postponement.

Features Faye Gaskin

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