Rugby legends and Rob Burrow CBE’s family have spoken ahead of a historic cross-code clash set to be held at Headingley Stadium.
Dubbed the ‘745 Game’, it was worked on by Rob Burrow and former rugby union player Ed Slater before Burrow’s passing this year following his fight against Motor Neurone Disease.
The inspiration behind the name of the game comes from the respective shirt numbers of those three MND warriors, with Rob Burrow wearing the number seven during his career, Slater wearing four and the late Doddie Weir wearing five – thus creating the ‘745 Game’.
A unique rule set, outlined here, will be used for the fixture and takes elements from both league and union whilst being 13-a-side.
It will feature names from both rugby league and union with legends such as Keith Senior, Adrian Morley, Danny McGuire and Paul McShane facing former England rugby union internationals such as Danny Cipriani and Billy Twelvetrees.
The idea was devised in text messages between Slater and Burrow, which can be seen below.
The game will take place on Sunday 17th November, and tickets are available now – with all funds raised going towards MND charities and researchers.
Kevin Sinfield and family of Rob Burrow speak ahead of historic cross-code clash
Credit: Imago Images
This week, legend Kevin Sinfield threw his support behind the event, honouring his friend, whilst revealing why he cannot play.
He said: “I think the concept for the game is absolutely brilliant and its lovely that everyone has pulled together to make sure Rob’s last project is realised.
“Unfortunately, because I set off on our next fundraising challenge on 1st December, I can’t be involved on the pitch but I will be there and am looking forward to chatting to guests before the game, especially about the great work that Ed Slater is doing and sharing memories of Rob and Doddie.
“I think it speaks volumes about how special all three are that so many players, including myself and Jonny, are ready to do whatever it takes to support this game.”
He will be at the game alongside rugby union icon Jonny Wilkinson.
Credit: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
News of the game was also covered by BBC Breakfast, who were brilliant in their coverage of Rob Burrow CBE’s fight against MND, and reporting on the concept of the game spoke with Rob’s Father and Wife.
“Rob wouldn’t want us to be moping,” Geoff Burrow said.
“It’s a bit difficult, but it’s events like this cross-code game that are going to remind everybody of what this horrible disease does to people, and that’s what it’s all about.
“But about having a smile on everyone’s faces as well.”
Lindsay added: “For us, the support we’ve had from the rugby community has been phenomenal.
“It’s been incredible, and I think to bring those two codes together and have a first-of-its-kind game, raising money for MND charities, is just fantastic.
“I really hope people get behind the game and the concept, and it was one of the last projects that Rob worked on, so it’s really great that it’s coming to life and great to celebrate both codes.”
It is hoped that the game can become an annual event.
