St Helens have confirmed when a potential World Club Challenge clash with NRL Champions will take place in 2023 should the clash of Champions go ahead.
Paul Wellens’ term in charge of the Saints will likely begin with a World Club Challenge clash in Australia with Saints confirming that the date of the fixture will be either the 18th or 19th of February, the same weekend as the opening round of Super League fixtures.
This is why they have to wait until Round Three for their first Super League home game which comes in the shape of a Grand Final rematch against Leeds Rhinos.
Their Round One clash appears to be against Huddersfield but when this will be played remains unclear.
In a statement released on the club’s website, the Champions released the following details:
“The opening home game at the start of each season is always a huge landmark occasion, and this will be no different as we begin the 150th season in the Club’s long and illustrious history.
“We will take on a resurgent Rhinos team under Rohan Smith, who will be looking for revenge following their defeat at Old Trafford back in September.
“Due to essential upgrades on our ticketing system, matchday tickets for all 2023 fixtures are not currently available to purchase until further notice. We will publish further information on ticket availability shortly.
“The Club and Super League continue to work with the NRL to finalise arrangements for a World Club Challenge to be held across the weekend of 18/19 February. Further announcements on this will be made in due course.”
Here are the opening fixtures:
Round 1:
Warrington Wolves vs Leeds Rhinos (Sky Sports)
Leigh Leopards vs Salford Red Devils (Sky Sports)
Wakefield Trinity vs Catalans Dragons
Hull FC vs Castleford Tigers
Hull KR vs Wigan Warriors (Channel 4)
Penrith Panthers vs St Helens (WCC)
Round 2:
Salford Red Devils vs Hull KR (Sky Sports)
Leeds Rhinos vs Hull FC (Sky Sports)
Huddersfield Giants vs Warrington Wolves
Catalans Dragons vs Leigh Leopards
Castleford Tigers vs St Helens (Channel 4)
Round 3:
St Helens vs Leeds Rhinos (Sky Sports)