Championship clubs explore options following season delay

Second-tier clubs had hoped to return to action for the first time in almost a year with a round of fixtures on February 27 and 28 but the decision was made to push back the start date of the campaign due to the impact of Covid-19 on the wider community.

The Government has suggested the lockdown could begin to ease in March but it is still unclear when supporters will be able to return to matches.

The RFL are in talks with Championship clubs, with plans to start as late as Easter.

However, clubs could kick off earlier if they opt take part in the early rounds of the Challenge Cup. The competition could begin as early as March 14, with Super League clubs due to enter at the third-round stage in April.

Matches behind closed doors could be streamed live on OurLeague with season ticket holders able to view in lieu of attending fixtures while other fans would be charged on a pay-per-view basis to help offset costs.

Upon the confirmation the season would be delayed, Ralph Rimmer, the RFL Chief Executive, said: “We have been grateful to our clubs throughout the last 10 months for their responsible and constructive approach to such a challenging period for all.

“There remains a desire and determination, from the RFL as well as clubs, to get back on the field as soon as is safely possible. However there is also a recognition of the need to be responsible at this time.

“A staged return to pre-season training, after the short pause advised last week, followed by a staggered start to the Betfred Championship and League 1 seasons, represents the best way for us to combine this responsibility with other priorities of player welfare and the financial sustainability of our clubs.

“This approach extends to the Academy and Scholarship programmes, which are so important to the future health of the game as well as the mental health of the youngsters involved – and we will confirm shortly a similar approach for the Betfred Women’s Super League.”