RL News: Westerman decision made, three clubs in for Welsby and Bateman transfer update

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

Wire blow Rhinos away

The Super League opening game was expected to be a competitive matchup but in the end it was anything but, Warrington racking up the points early on and having tied up the win by half-time at a score of 30-0. There was plenty of highlights, player ratings and talking points though. It was a game that also fit the occasion of Super League opener, crossing a significant attendance figure.

Three clubs who could sign Welsby

Jack Welsby is the man who’s impressed massively during St Helens’ stint in Australia and reports down under suggested that his talents could trigger a bidding war. More details have now been released as to which side’s could target the talented youngster ahead of his performance in Saturday morning’s World Club Challenge fixture.

Friday fixtures team news released

Following Thursday night’s opener there’s two more games to be played on Friday night. Leigh are flexing the muscles of their huge off-season in which they’ve recruited massively, whilst visitors Salford are depleted. The non TV fixture sees the Mark Applegarth reign start at Belle Vue with a Catalans side that’s lacking it’s stars visiting.

Beaumont reveals rebrand reasons

Leigh Centurions rebranding as Leigh Leopards has caused plenty of noise this off-season but owner Derek Beaumont has been steadfast in keeping the design. He’s since revealed what triggered the rebrand, why his side’s opener will be “the biggest ever rugby event” and also his love of ‘winding people up’. 

Westerman named in Radford’s squad

There was speculation around if Lee Radford would name Joe Westerman in his opening game of the season, but the Tigers’ boss has kept the faith in the man he labels “a mentally tough fella”. Both Radford and Smith have named strong squads as well in a game that the Black and Whites are tipping could be a record attendance for a non-derby game.

The NRL clubs that tried to sign Roby

James Roby is undoubtedly one of Super League’s greatest ever players, he’s smashed the appearance record and could be set for a fifth consecutive Grand Final and a seventh in total. Despite that success he never made the NRL switch, yet it’s been revealed which side’s chased after the St Helens’ stalwart.

Powell proud as punch

Daryl Powell knew the spotlight was on him heading into the season opener but he was glowing after the game, with plenty of praise for his men. The performance was one that Jon Wilkin was incredibly positive about after his scathing comments earlier in the week.

Applegarth talks stadium redevelopment

Belle Vue has been in long need of a redevelopment and new Trinity boss Mark Applegarth has revealed his relief that it’s finally happening. He spoke ahead of his side’s opening game about the changes and why it’s important.

Reaction to Rhinos blowout

Pundits, former players and even former referees have all had their say over the performance that Leeds Rhinos put in last night. Going down 42-10 to Warrington their hunger has been questioned by Jon Wilkin. Former Man of Steel Luke Gale also chimed in regarding his former club, whilst Richard Silverwood has questioned Rohan Smith.

Bateman switch one step closer

The John Bateman transfer was a saga in itself but ensuring that the England international has a visa and can secure entry into Australia has been a whole different story. It seems that just two weeks out from the NRL opener that there’s been a breakthrough in his situation.

KR & Wigan both missing new signings

The Channel 4 Super League coverage gets underway in the lunchtime kick-off on Saturday and Willie Peters’ Hull KR host Challenge Cup holders’ Wigan Warriors. Both sides aiming for better than in 2022, but both have named squads without some of their star signings.

Pundit labels McGuire ban “harsh”

Warrington Wolves’ new NRL signing Josh McGuire copped a seven-game ban for verbal abuse during the Wire’s pre-season friendly with Leigh. Pundit Barrie McDermott has voiced his opinion on the decision and the review process.

Saints’ fans in MND charity appeal

Raising funds and awareness for MND is a cause close to the hearts of rugby league fans and for a group of St Helens’ fans especially so. When their friend Ian was diagnosed at 44 they wanted to make a difference and raise some money. They’ll be lapping the Totally Wicked Stadium in a golf buggy for 24 hours in a World Record attempt. Find out more about their great efforts and cause here.

Championship Round Three Predictions

The Super League is just getting underway but we’ve already had 14 games in the Championship and we’ve predicted the outcome of the next seven, with one unbeaten team tipped for a shock loss.

Super League coach reveals failed interview

Paul Wellens is a St Helens’ legend but the man in charge has now revealed that he interviewed for the job when Justin Holbrook left the role. He also revealed the one question that really ‘winds him up’ in the sport.

Top Championship side in dual reg with Cas

Halifax Panthers and Castleford Tigers have confirmed a dual registration partnership deal for the 2023 season which will be to the benefit of both sides this coming campaign. Fax are chasing promotion whilst the Tigers will aim to get minutes spread across a large squad as they aim for the playoffs for the first time since 2019.