Championship rugby league fixture sees location change due to stadium work

A Championship rugby league fixture has been forced to move stadiums, caused by a delay to work being done on the pitch meaning it will not be completed in time. 

Newly promoted Oldham, who sit fourth in the league, will see their home game against Widnes Vikings on Saturday 6th July moved to Sedgley Park Rugby Club, after pitch renovations at their current home ground, Boundary Park, have taken longer than expected. The work will not be completed in time for the game to be played there, meaning a change of venue was compulsory. 

A statement from the club was put on social media platform, X, and read: “The club can confirm that our next home Betfred Championship match against Widnes Vikings on Sunday July 6th will now take place at Sedgley Park Rugby Club in Whitefield. 

“This is due to a delay in work on the playing surface at Boundary Park beyond our control.” 

“We appreciate the understanding of all of our loyal supporters and all tickets already purchased are of course valid. This includes all season ticket holders, all hospitality, pie and peas, hospitality boxes and general tickets already purchased. 

“Kick off is 3pm and we will communicate further information in due course. We thank you once again for your support and understanding and thank you also to Sedgley Park for being so accommodating and supportive. 

Oldham Rugby League Football Club forced into ground change

The Roughyeds, who this week have signed up star halfback Josh Drinkwater to a new deal for 2026, currently sit fourth in the league and are hopeful for a promotion-chasing campaign that ends in silverware. 

Widnes currently sit ninth in the league, and under head coach Allan Coleman, have won just two of their last 10 matches. 

The sides faced off in the reverse fixture in April, which finished 10-10 and the points were shared. 

Oldham are not the only Championship side to see their home games moved to inadequate grounds, with Halifax being forced to play five of their home games at Odsal Stadium due to pitch work.