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RL News: Twelve game ban could spell sacking, Super League star signs extension and Magic Weekend’s huge TV figures

Below is a round-up of all the latest news from the world of rugby league over the last 24 hours.

McGuire’s huge ban and uncertain future

Josh McGuire came to Super League with a big reputation as an NRL hard man and he’s potentially lent into that too much as he’s landed another huge ban. He’s been hit with a 12-game ban, his second large ban for unacceptable language, after he pleaded not guilty over the Grade F charge. That sentence goes above and beyond the guidelines but there’s a good reason why, as explained here. It’s unclear what next for McGuire but reports down under suggest his time could be up.

Team News, TV games and Ref Appointments

Round 15 is just around the corner and the officials have been confirmed for all of the games, with Chris Kendall taking the big one this week in Saints Wigan which is among six televised games. Castleford have recalled a loan player prior to their Salford clash. A key man returns for Saints to face Wigan whereas Hull FC lose an experienced head but are boosted by the return of a young star. Hull KR’s team news isn’t out yet but there’s a huge injury blow for them, whilst James Batchelor who left the field on a stretcher at Magic will also miss an extended period.

Rhinos yet to recruit for 2024

Recruitment has been in overdrive since the May 1st deadline when teams were able to contact rival players. That said it seems that Leeds Rhinos may not have signed anyone yet. This is in spite of “announcements” being due soon surrounding players. One player who still remains out “indefinitely” for the Rhinos is forward Zane Tetevano.

English NRL star’s return in the air

Luke Thompson headed to the NRL having already won all there is to win in England, but now in his third year he could be set for a return at an age that should be peak of his powers. Thompson has struggled with injuries and has been linked with a return to Wigan but his club’s chief has now dashed water on that, but admits it’s an uncertain future for the prop.

Super League star signs big extension

Jordan Abdull has had an injury-hit season but there’s no denying that when he’s been on the pitch he’s been one of the best in the competition, and in turn he’s made Hull KR serious contenders. The talented half has now affirmed his commitment to the club with an extension deal ensuring KR maintain their upward trajectory. Rovers boss Willie Peters has also confirmed his sides’ interest in another Super League full-back in their efforts to build for 2024. For the time being though their newest full-back recruit could debut on Saturday.

Magic Weekend hits huge TV numbers

It seems that Magic Weekend was once again a big success with the viewing figures for the weekend having been reported and being overwhelmingly positive. Within that it’s been announced which surprise game held the biggest audience share and it’s a very unexpected one. The news also comes in line with an update on the upcoming TV deal for 2024 and beyond.

New Burrow doc to air on TV

Rob Burrow is among the most inspirational figures in rugby league at the moment and the determination that he and his family show is something to be admired. A new documentary is to air Thursday 8th June at 8:30pm on ITV1 featuring Burrow and his wife Lindsey, and how they’re coping with the former Rhinos life with MND.

Coach sets record straight over speculation

One side who have often been a selling club of late is Salford Red Devils and their current crop of players have received plenty of interest too, no more than Tyler Dupree. Paul Rowley has now affirmed that the prop is going nowhere. That news comes in with the Red Devils’ fundraising/investment opportunity closing out at a huge figure. The club are also aiming for a record attendance figure at one of their upcoming games.

Eddie and Stevo slam IMG

IMG are set to be the leaders of the sport and help modernise the sport in terms of it’s reach and advertising but they’ve come in for some criticism in their inactivity. The latest of that comes from iconic commentary duo Eddie and Stevo who have blasted IMG, claiming they “need to pull their finger out”.

Broncos appoint Lovegrove

Rhys Lovegrove led Keighley Cougars to an invincible season in League One last year and they’d adapted well to Championship. However Lovegrove was removed from his position after a poor run of form, but he now has a new job with fellow second-tier side London Broncos.

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