Last night, the country and the world was given the news that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II had passed away.
Having been at Balmoral for the past few days, her family rushed to her bedside yesterday afternoon to say their last goodbyes.
The world has been in mourning ever since with news channels dedicated to getting her message out there.
It has also been revealed that the Queen’s funeral is likely taking place on Sunday 18 September – just a day after St Helens’ Super League semi-final clash against the lowest ranked elimination winner from this weekend’s action.
From the list, that will either be Salford Red Devils, Catalans Dragons or the Leeds Rhinos, but the weekend potentially set to be one for mourning, it remains to be seen whether or not Saints’ game will be given the go ahead at the Totally Wicked Stadium.
However, after contacting the RFL, the governing body has revealed that the funeral should not affect the semi-finals.
If that isn’t possible – given the fact that every sport stopped when the news of Princess Diana’s death broke back in August 1997 except a match between London Broncos and the Bradford Bulls – then the fixture may have to be altered.
Tributes flooded in from far and wide both yesterday and today with the Queen so obviously touching so many peoples’ lives.
Simon Johnson, Chair of the Rugby Football League said this: “On behalf of the RFL and the whole Rugby League family, I express our deepest and most sincere condolences on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The whole sport is in deep mourning at this extremely sad news.
“Rugby League was honoured to have her as our Patron until 2016, and throughout her long reign, Her Majesty’s sense of duty and commitment, her spirit and wisdom has been an example to all of us.
“We give grateful thanks for Her Majesty’s constant and positive influence on our communities over many generations.
“We send our deepest sympathy and most sincere condolences to the Royal Family including the RFL Patron, HRH The Duchess of Cambridge.
“Our clubs and players at all levels will display their respect to Her Majesty wherever Rugby League is played in the coming days.”
Rest In Peace, Your Majesty.
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