Leeds Rhinos confirm continuation of Boxing Day tradition

Whilst there are still two more tests to play between England and Tonga it is technically the off-season and that means that pre-season is only just around the corner, and Leeds Rhinos have provided a massive reminder of that today with confirmation of a major pre-season friendly.

It may be less than a fortnight since Wigan Warriors defeated Catalans Dragons at Old Trafford in the Grand Final but teams are already intent on knocking Matt Peet’s side off their perch.

One prime example of that would be Leeds Rhinos who, despite having a disappointing 2023 season on field, have smashed it off field in the past month.

They’ve confirmed the signings of both Brodie Croft and Andy Ackers and only yesterday they were given the highest grade among all teams under the IMG criteria.

Chief Executive Gary Hetherington has also hinted at further recruitment too which is even more positive news for Rhinos fans to look forward to.

Asked if recruitment was done, Hetherington explained: “Not quite, not quite, but it’s getting there now. We’ve got quite a lot of new faces in the squad next year. All very eager and determined to show what they can do. We’ve got some outstanding players anyway.”

It’s set to be an exciting 2024 campaign for the Rhinos but they’ve still got one more game in 2023, as confirmed this morning.

Leeds have hosted Wakefield in a Boxing Day game as a tradition annually and despite Trinity’s relegation to the Championship, 2023 will be no different with Leeds confirming that the fixture is set to take place once again.

The club took to X, formerly Twitter, to confirm the news with the following statement:

“Leeds Rhinos will take on Wakefield Trinity on Boxing Day at AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium, kick off 11.30am in the annual Wetherby Whaler Festive Challenge, tickets are on sale now for a great traditional day out for Rugby League fans young and old.”

The club have launched tickets with prices for both members and non-members.

Last season’s Boxing Day clash saw Wakey run out as winners with a very young Rhinos squad playing that day, however fans will be keen for Leeds to follow their statement signings with a statement win to round out 2023.