Wigan Warriors were set to play against St Helens in the academy Grand Final this coming weekend but they have now been replaced by fellow semi-finalists Warrington Wolves.
The Warriors had defeated Warrington 18-12 in the semi-final but used 12 substitutions, which is four more than the permitted eight.
Thus, they have been removed from the Academy Grand Final.
The RFL made the following statement:
“The RFL Board have ruled that Wigan Warriors cannot play in this weekend’s Academy Grand Final after it emerged that they made 12 interchanges in last weekend’s Semi-Final against Warrington Wolves – four more than the limit of eight.
“Wigan won the game 18-12, but the RFL Board have ruled that Warrington should be reinstated to play St Helens in Sunday’s Final at the Totally Wicked Stadium.
“The judgement contains the following explanation: “Clearly, this is a difficult decision to reach. The Board recognises the emotion on all sides here and especially the impact on everyone involved.”
Though Wigan’s youngsters’ hopes of Grand Final glory are over, the first team can still make the Grand Final.
In fact they can win silverware tonight. Their game against Leigh Leopards could see them win the League Leaders’ Shield.
They are live on Sky Sports. In addition to full match coverage of this game, Sky will also have cameras and reporters at all fixtures that stand a chance of affecting the shape of the Play-Offs, meaning viewers won’t miss a thing next Friday night.
Meanwhile RL Commercial are making arrangements to ensure the League Leaders’ Shield can be presented to the winners on Friday night – at Leigh, Salford or St Helens.
Rhodri Jones, the Managing Director of RL Commercial, said:
“With only two rounds remaining of this competitive and compelling Betfred Super League season, it is impossible to predict with confidence exactly what will be at stake in Round 27.
“We are grateful to Sky Sports for making special arrangements which allow all six matches to be played on Friday night, meaning no late switches for supporters who are planning to attend in person, and an action-packed last night for viewers.”
Betfred Super League Round 27 – Sky Sports Friday Night Special
Fixtures
Huddersfield Giants v Warrington Wolves
Leeds Rhinos v Castleford Tigers
Leigh Leopards v Wigan Warriors
Salford Red Devils v Catalans Dragons
St Helens v Hull FC
Wakefield Trinity v Hull KR
