Below is a round-up of all the latest news from the world of rugby league over the last 24 hours.
Losing coaches tear into teams
There was plenty of big losses across Magic Weekend, and another handful of shock losses with some intertwining. Very few expected Catalans to put such a display on against Wigan, and Matt Peet made his feelings clear after the game. Ian Watson tried to explain away his side’s loss by referencing the St James’ “slope”, whilst Rohan Smith spoke in detail about what went wrong against Castleford. To finish off the weekend we saw another shock with Hull FC turning over top of the table Warrington, something coach Daryl Powell has spoke on. Ian Watson even went on to suggest star players could be dropped.
19 charged in Super League
A huge 19 players have been charged at the disciplinary process today in Super League with four of those being banned as well. One man who didn’t cop a ban was Mikey Lewis, however he was cited a surprising three times. The panel also ruled on Josh McGuire’s case from last week and he could be set to face a huge ban as he’ll now head to tribunal. That’s a case from the week prior, however there’s a reason why it took a week to determine his grade F charge.
The future of Magic?
Magic Weekend is a brilliant event, that was exemplified by the brilliant attendance achieved in spite of rail strikes and an FA Cup final clashing with the event. That attendance looks strong in comparison to other years, particularly post-pandemic. Despite there it’s still up in the air over if it will be renewed but there’s been an update on the event. One factor that could now contribute to the future of the event is football’s Premier League.
Marquee player rule change
The RFL have approved a major change to the marquee player rule in line with the salary cap regulations for 2024. Clubs will now be able to have a third marquee player but on a specific condition. There’s also an array of financial implications as to how clubs can work the cap, as explained here.
Transfer talks heat up
There’s always speculation at this time of the season but of late there’s been plenty and reports down under are suggesting that a Leeds Rhinos man could be allowed to leave. Another story revolves around Hull FC full-back Jamie Shaul and where his future lies, with the playmaker speaking to Serious About Rugby League.
Super League betting update at halfway stage
With Magic Weekend passing by it now means that Super League sides have less games to play then what they’ve already played, barring St Helens and Huddersfield. It’s made for an interesting table so far with some fancied teams struggling more than expected. That’s led a huge change in the betting odds with one huge club now out to 25/1 from their early pre-season short odds.
Leigh punch controversy
In game one on Sunday at Magic Weekend it seemed Wakefield had a huge opportunity when Leigh went down to 12 men following Ben Reynold’s punch, something he claimed didn’t happen. Despite that former player Danny Brough had his own view suggesting “you have to smash them” when throwing a punch. He also spoke out on what was a controversial yellow card, one that left Leigh fuming when it was further explained. In regards to Leigh and punching, their owner Derek Beaumont has revealed how both he and pundit Jon Wilkin had been set for a charity boxing match until the latter pulled out.
Round 14 Team of the Week and Injury News
After the weekend in Newcastle there was some worrying injuries, particularly in the first games on both days with James Batchelor and then Jack Croft both being stretchered off the pitch. A full round-up of the injuries can be found here. As for the team of the week there was some teams that shone more than others and three teams dominate the squad.
Super League club stadium set for new owners
Wigan Warriors are set to be impacted by the performance of Wigan Athletic as a change of stadium owner is incoming it seems. Athletic were relegated to League One and with that there’s talk of a stadium sale. That has now begged the question of what happens for the Warriors and if they’ll need to make a change of home.
Potential NRL transfers inbound
Recruitment is in full swing and Super League sides are looking outside of the competition to strengthen with the NRL being an obvious option. One forward could be available effective immediately and a series of clubs could swoop for him. Another big move that could originate in the NRL is the one that has been rumbling on regarding Luke Brookes and Leeds Rhinos, and it now seems the West Tigers man could be subject of a big money move.
Former Man of Steel granted testimonial
Paul McShane won the Man of Steel in 2020 and he’s still impressing for Castleford Tigers now at 33, however father time calls on us all. With McShane set to hang the boots up in the near future he’s been granted a testimonial for 14 years of service to rugby league.
