Competitive rugby league makes its long-awaited return this weekend as round one of the Challenge Cup begins with 34 community clubs in action.
The competition has been altered again for 2026 with the draw regionalised to try and create matchups that may have some rivalry involved, whilst also being economical for clubs and fans as it reduces travel times.
As such, a number of standout fixtures have been drawn but only two will be available to watch for the fans at home with one game set to be aired by the BBC and another by the Sportsman Rugby League YouTube channel.
Everything you need to know about the 2026 Challenge Cup
As well as the 17 Challenge Cup games this weekend, there are also 10 pre-season friendlies with a number of Super League sides in action with one of those pre-season games avaiable for fans to watch. Barrow Raiders will stream Shane Toal’s testimonial against Scotland with passes available to buy to watch that game.
What rugby league games are on TV this week?
As for those in England who will be wanting to watch some games but cannot make it down to any, the two options lined up by the BBC and the Sportsman on Saturday and Sunday are very exciting.
Rochdale Mayfield v Ince Rose Bridge on BBC Sport website @ 1:30 pm on Saturday, 10th January
Saturday’s game sees Mayfield, who have produced plenty of Super League talents including Matty Lees and Mayy Ashton, host Ince Rose Bridge who progressed to round three in 2025. The winner of this clash will take on Championship outfit Swinton Lions in the second round.
Siddal v Waterhead on the Sportsman YouTube channel @ 1:30 pm on Sunday, 11th January
Jake Connor, reigning Man of Steel, is the coach of Siddal and he’ll face off against another former Super League man with Nathan Mason the head coach of Waterhead. The winner of this one will take on Rochdale Hornets in round two.
Challenge Cup Round One fixtures
Orrell St James v Haresfinch
Wigan St Judes v Leigh Miners Rangers
Rochdale Mayfield v Ince Rose Bridge
Blackbrook v GB Police
Siddal v Waterhead
Stanningley v Dewsbury Moor
Kings Cross Park v West Hull
Hunslet ARLFC v York Acorn
Heworth v RAF
Brighouse Rangers v Lock Lane
Woodhouse Warriors v Mirfield Spartans
Bedford Tigers v Medway Dragons
British Army v Wests Warriors
Broncos (Northern Ireland) v Aberavon Fighting Irish
Telford Raiders v London Chargers
Royal Navy v Hammersmith Hills Hoists
Check out the latest episode of The Serious About Rugby League Show on our YouTube channel here.
