Below is a round-up of all the latest news from the world of rugby league over the last 24 hours.
English duo sign big extensions
Ash Handley and Ben Currie are two stalwart names in Super League now and both have featured for England, with Handley receiving his call-up for the April international. The pair are undoubtedly among the fan’s favourites at each side, in part due to their loyalty. Both men have now extended their contracts with Leeds confirming Handley’s news this morning, whilst Warrington have announced Currie will remain until his 15th season with the club.
Wigan look at centre switch
It’s been reported by the Mole of Wide World of Sports that Wigan Warriors are interested in signing centre Brenko Lee from the Dolphins. The 27-year-old has plenty of experience but could find his way to Super League per those reports. That could also mean the writing is on the wall for one current Wigan centre with Lee’s arrival potentially forcing an Englishman out.
Coach admits star may not play again
Lachlan Coote has already confirmed that he’s set to retire at the end of the season having been one of just a few players to win Grand Finals in both Super League and NRL. His recent failed HIA has caused major concern, and has prompted one pundit and former player to speculate that Coote “won’t play again”. Head Coach Willie Peters was also asked about his star full-back and has conceded that there’s “potential” Coote could have played his last game. Rovers have loaned in Catalans youngster Tanguy Zenon to try cover for Coote in the short term.
Starlet signs on loan with rival team
Castleford Tigers are having some issues with injuries at present and they’ve tried to stem them with the loaning in of Warrington Wolves’ young half-back Riley Dean. That comes as the Tigers have provided an update on the status of one of their long-term injuries in the halves with Danny Richardson having potentially played his last game for the club. Castleford also provided an update on Jacques O’Neill and his status as he aims to return to play.
What next for Josh McGuire?
Josh McGuire landed himself his second huge ban of the season for unacceptable language and time has now passed for the Wire man to appeal. It now remains unclear what next for the veteran Aussie after suggestions that his contract could have been terminated.
Rhinos confirm star suffered stroke
Leeds Rhinos have confirmed that the personal matter that forward Zane Tetevano had been dealing with was due to the Kiwi having had a stroke. Thankfully it’s been announced Tetevano is on the mend, and he’s now set to run a 10k to raise money for charity.
Stevo questions IMG and RFL
IMG have been announced as the partners with the sport of rugby league and it’s upon their recommendations that clubs have voted in a grading system, however what else have they done? That’s something that pundit Eddie ‘Stevo’ Stevenson has called into question as he’s slammed recent comments as “hot air”. He’s also spoken about the prospective new TV deal and queried if the RFL are being transparent enough over the details.
Two star men set for long lay-offs
A former Man of Steel and one of this season’s front-runners in the current Man of Steel competition will both not play for an extended period it’s been confirmed. Paul McShane of Castleford has fractured his arm and will therefore head to surgery and miss eight weeks. Meanwhile one of this season’s form players, Jordan Abdull, has torn his hamstring and will miss 12-16 weeks, almost effectively ending his season. His teammate Sam Wood will also miss a major period of the season.
Challenge Cup games scheduled for TV
This week sees eight games set for television coverage with all four of the Challenge Cup quarter-finals set to be put on the screen for viewers. It’s also been confirmed who will take charge of each game across both Saturday and Sunday with all confirmed match officials listed here.
Knighthood calls for Burrow
Rob Burrow and those around him, namely his wife Lindsey and best mate Kevin Sinfield, have been inspiring in their brilliant campaign to raise funds and awareness around MND. There’s since been calls for knighthoods which Leigh owner Derek Beaumont has backed. There’s also been confirmation Rob will appear at an upcoming Super League fixture. Rob’s Dad, Geoff, is another who has been relentless in campaigning and has recently called on more government action with Leeds Hospitals Charity having to fundraise themselves, something that can be read about here.
NRL star warns veteran off return
Mitchell Pearce has been linked with a sensational return to the NRL and his former club Sydney Roosters. That’s something that he’s been warned off by a former teammate and good friend, Wade Graham. The Melbourne man said he’d be shocked to see Pearce return and has advised against the move.
Why Wakey man got huge ban
Last week saw Wakefield Trinity’s first win of the season but it came at a price with multiple suspensions, none more than the huge seven game ban for triallist Hugo Salabio. The RFL have now explained why the Frenchman got such a large ban and the case that Trinity pleaded has also been revealed.
