What next for the Super League, Challenge Cup and England fixtures?

The coronavirus pandemic could lead to a complete reboot of how rugby league is organised – starting next yearBy Gavin Willacy for No Helmets RequiredWhen the time comes that rugby league can shape a fixture list for the rest of 2020, they will have to follow cricket’s lead by prioritising the events that bring in the most money. And that could lead to permanent changes to the game’s structure.In Super League’s case, they need sufficient fixtures to satisfy Sky and play the Grand Final; for the RFL the essential revenue-generating events are the Challenge Cup Final and England games – without that matchday income and broadcast fees, the governing body would face a cataclysmic scenario. No wonder they have already lodged a request for financial support from the government. Related: My favourite game: Wigan-Hull, Challenge Cup final 1985 | Paul Wilson Related: Coronavirus leaves Super League facing 13-team season next year Related: Squandered money and a lack of planning puts NRL on precipice | Nick Tedeschi Related: 'This could be the end for a few clubs': sports fans on coronavirus Continue readingread full article

Source: TheGuardian

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