Kiwis first to return to action
Lussick pain as lockdown foils big stage dream
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NEW ZEALAND will be the first rugby union nation back in action after their five ‘Super’ franchises were cleared to start a domestic competition on June 13.
The tournament, set to replace the All Blacks’ Tests against Wales and Scotland and run until the end of August, is behind closed doors. “It’s fantastic news for the game right across the country,” said New Zealand Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson (inset).
“I think a lot of people around the world are watching us and being in touch around how we’re approaching it, not only for New Zealand but right around the sporting world. It’s critical we do it well.” Australia hope to host a similar competition featuring their four Super Rugby sides plus Western Force and possibly Japan’s Sunwolves if they relocate to New South Wales or Queensland for the tournament.
DARCY LUSSICK has given up on trying to predict when his Super League debut frustration will end.
The Aussie was gutted when surgery ruled him out of Toronto Wolfpack’s arrival on the big stage at the start of the season.
The prop – one of the heroes of last year’s promotion campaign – fought his way back to fitness but was then stopped in his tracks by lockdown.
Now he has no clue when, or even if, the Canadian side will be able to play again this year.
Lussick, 30, because my Championship
October.
“I am 100 per cent fine after my double hernia repair but who knows when we will be playing again.”
The Government has announced that sports events could be held behind closed doors for broadcast purposes from June 1.
Super League is willing to initially play without crowds, to help meet part of their financial commitment to main sponsors Sky. But it is understood that the game is unlikely to be ready to restart until July at the earliest and even possibly August.
This is due to a range of factors, including furlough agreements and the said: “It is frustrating last game was the Grand Final last need to stagger players’ return to training, firstly in small groups.
Wolfpack players, most of whom are English or Australian, are already based here and the other overseas side Catalan Dragons have said they would be prepared to move over.
But one suggestion – with relegation likely to be waived – is that the season restarts without the two overseas sides. Lussick added: “Of course that’s a worry.
“I cannot see them playing again without two teams but where are we going to play?
“There are a lot of logistics and hurdles to jump over. While there are new coronavirus cases every day, then it is simply not safe to start the season again.”
The RFL and club bosses have drawn up various return-to-play scenarios but will monitor football’s comeback before finalising plans.
Super League clubs are holding daily meetings while making inquiries about tests the players will need to undergo. ■ SALFORD have lost their fight to keep star player Niall Evalds, after Castleford made him a better offer.
Director Paul King said: “We made him a fantastic offer but he has chosen to go elsewhere for 2021. It’s disappointing but that’s sport.”