Rugby League News – keeping you up to date with the latest news from the world of rugby league.
It has been a busy 24 hours with major stories breaking from Super League and the NRL.
Here is a round-up of everything that has happened…
Coote out
Hull KR’s new signing Lachlan Coote will not play any part in the Robins’ game at Huddersfield Giants on Saturday, the Hull Daily Mail has reported.
The former St Helens fullback has a hamstring issue which rules him out of the clash.
Stadium fallout
Rugby League Live has revealed that Halifax Panthers head coach Simon Grix has called on Calderdale Council to do something about the state of The Shay pitch.
It has been left muddied following the bad weather and Grix said: “The real issue we’re skirting over is that the pitch isn’t fit for purpose and hasn’t been since the days of both clubs playing together.”
Leeds appoint ex-Castleford coach
Leeds Rhinos have appointed a former Castleford Tigers coach as part of their Foundation Programme, the club reported on its website.
He has also worked on the game’s regional pathway for development. Read more on the appointment here.
Thompson’s bombshell
Former St Helens forward has told the Daily Telegraph all about his experiences with the vaccination and why he held off for so long getting it.
Thompson also spoke in great deal about his future and interest from elsewhere. Read more here.
McManus on the game
Eamonn McManus has told the St Helens Star that he is excited about how the game is growing and what can be done to grow it even further.
The Star said: “McManus is confident of seeing positive results from the joint Super League Europe and the RFL working party in seeking a strategic partner to help grow the game, build its profile and boost its revenues.”
Wells’ damning evidence
Sky Sports pundit Jon Wells has produced damning evidence against the claims of Jamie Acton and Oliver Wilkes that drug abuse is widespread in rugby league.
Wells produced statistics of those tested by UKAD to back up his argument in an impassioned defence of the sport. Read more here.
Super League new deal
Super League has confirmed a new deal on its website that will will bring in more investment.
The CEO of the company said: “Our team are excited to see our work come to life on-screen following the new broadcast agreements Super League has signed with Sky Sports and Channel 4 this season.” Read more here.
Hastings blow
The West Australian Today has revealed some big news on Jackson Hastings that could have repercussions for the start of the NRL season.
Hastings recently made the move back to Australia after a successful period in Super League. Read more about the news here.
Trinity captain and dropped star
Wakefield Trinity head coach Willie Poching has named a new captain for Saturday’s away clash at the Catalans Dragons.
Poching also revealed to BBC Radio Leeds that one of his star’s has been dropped to the reserves in order for him ‘to find a bit of a mojo’ back after a drop in form, whilst a number of other players picked up injuries in last weekend’s defeat to Hull FC. Read more here.
Saints brilliance
St Helens have announced on their website some incredible news ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Hull FC live on Channel 4.
The Merseyside team are coming off the back of a superb 28-8 victory over Catalans Dragons. Read more on the news here.
Barba’s sentence
Disgraced NRL and Super League star Ben Barba has been handed a sentence following a trial period, the Courier Mail has reported.
Barba won the Man of Steel back in 2018 after a superb season with St Helens and returned back to Australia, but again found himself in trouble. Read more here.
Beaumont on Super League
Leigh Centurions owner Derek Beaumont has revealed to Serious About Rugby League that he is surprised these two Super League sides haven’t won the Grand Final.
Beaumont also gave his prediction for the Super League Grand Final in 2022. Read more here.
Eight-match ban
A British winger faces the possibility of an eight-match ban following las weekend’s games, the RFL has revealed in the minutes of its Disciplinary Match Review Panel.
The footage itself shocked a number of viewers and the winger has been charged with a Grade E offence. Read more on the potential ban here.
Hock’s new career
Former Wigan Warriors and Leigh Centurions prop Gareth Hock has found himself a new career.
After retiring in 2019, Hock has somewhat gone off the radar, keeping himself to himself following over 200 career appearances. Read more here.
Warrington Wolves
Watch: Sam Burgess and Richie Myler clash in post-match tunnel incident
