Why there are just three Super League games this week with Hull KR, Warrington Wolves and St Helens not playing

Super League have decided to split round 20 into two separate weeks, and some fans have questioned why this is, so here is a short explanation, and why it could prove vital as the season comes to a close. 

This week sees three matches take place. Wakefield Trinity host Leeds Rhinos in a West Yorkshire derby that is key in the playoff race on Thursday night. 

Having won just two games from their previous five, Wigan Warriors need a strong performance to start to build any momentum for the playoffs. They face struggling Catalans Dragons, who have won just once since May. 

Wigan will have to either shuffle their team around, or rely on youngsters, as they need to find someone to fill in at full back to replace the injured Jai Field and Zack Eckersley. 

On Saturday, the final Super League game of the week sees Hull FC return to the MKM Stadium in a joyous mood after their strong win over the Warriors. They need to back it up with another good performance against Huddersfield Giants. 

Why are Super League having a split round of fixtures? 

As player welfare is one of the RFL’s top priorities, it is thought that giving clubs an extra week off during the season will help reduce load, allow for time off and make sure players are fresher when it comes to the back end of the season and the pressure ramps up. 

The 2025 season has seen player match limits introduced, though they are only advisory, meaning players can only play a certain number of minutes in a season. 

It aims to reduce player workload and keep them fit and healthier for longer periods of the season in a bid to hopefully see higher intensity matches more often. 

Full list of Round 20 fixtures: 

Wakefield Trinity vs Leeds Rhinos – Thursday 24th July @ 8:00pm 

Wigan Warriors vs Catalans Dragons – Friday 25th July @ 8:00pm 

Hull FC vs Huddersfield Giants – Saturday 26th July @ 3:00pm 

Salford Red Devils vs Hull KR – Thursday 31st July @ 8:00pm 

Leigh Leopards vs Warrington Wolves – Friday 1st August @ 8:00pm 

St Helens vs Castleford Tigers – Friday 1st August @ 8:00pm