Rugby League News: Catalans confirm Pearce signing, Wood outlines 2022 hopes, the reasons behind Hampshire’s Wakefield departure & the future of the Bash

Rugby League News – keeping you up to date with the latest news from the world of rugby league.

The last 24 hours have been filled with exciting news as we look ahead to the 2022 season, so let’s look at the most eye catching stories from around the rugby league world which you might have missed over the weekend.

Championship and League 1 Fixtures revealed

Yesterday, the RFL released the Championship and League 1 fixtures ahead of next season including the first 12 games to feature on Premier Sports. See the run down of the most note worthy fixtures at Serious About Rugby League.

Bash to say goodbye to Blackpool

Speaking of the Championship, it was revealed that the Championship Bash would not be taking place in Blackpool next year as it has done since its inception. The Examiner Live then reported that Leeds’ Headingley Stadium is the suggested replacement venue.

Hampshire offered no deal

The League Express revealed last night that now former Wakefield utility Ryan Hampshire was not offered a new deal by the club. Where his future lies still remains to be seen.

Only 11 Super League teams to feature in next year’s Challenge Cup

Super League new boys Toulouse will not be participating in next year’s Challenge Cup. According to the Examiner Live they declined an invitation to participate.

Warrior signs extension

Wigan Warriors second-rower Willie Isa yesterday signed a two-year extension to remain at the DW Stadium until the end of 2023. See what he said about his new deal at Serious About Rugby League.

Catalans Transfer News

The Dragons have confirmed the signing of Mitchell Pearce from Newcastle Knights on an initial two-year deal.

Wests Tigers bring in new coach

Wests Tigers have drafted in defence coach Nathan Cayless ahead of the new season.

Wood looking to nail down position

One of Hull KR’s new signings, Sam Wood, is looking to find a settled position at the Robins in 2022 having shown great versatility during his time at Huddersfield. In the Hull Daily Mail he revealed he’s looking to establish himself as a centre during pre-season.

The player every Super League team will the most

Serious About Rugby League identified the player every Super League team will miss the most next season after a number of high profile transfers going into 2022.

New Zealand Warriors bring in young halfback

The Warriors have signed Luke Metcalf on a two-year deal starting 2023 as reported by The West Australian.

Connor reacts to Gale forecast at the MKM Stadium

Jake Connor has described Hull FC’s latest signing Luke Gale as a ‘genuine leader’ in the Hull Daily Mail as he outlines why the former Man of Steel is just what the Black and Whites need.

Government make MND u-turn

Yesterday the government reversed their decision to deny £50 million worth of funding over the next five years to find a cure for Motor Neurone Disease prompting great joy in Leeds legend Rob Burrow and the rugby league community. See how Burrow reacted at Serious About Rugby League.

Fusitu’a to miss start of pre-season

New Leeds signing David Fusitu’a will not report to the first week of pre-season training at Kirkstall like the rest of the squad according to Leeds Live due to the lockdowns being caused by Covid-19 and the fact he has not yet received his Visa.

Paramatta face contract conundrum

According to Fox League, Paramatta will have to make some tough decisions with 13 players off contract as they desperately strive to end their Premiership wait.