Academies get the green light

SUPER League academy players will be able to return to training in less than two weeks - but there will be no formal competition.

The RFL has confirmed players have been given the green light to return to training as lockdown restrictions begin to ease.

However, an under-19s competition will not take place due to the uncertainty surrounding Covid-19. The RFL will explore options that afford playing opportunities to those affected.

Though their return to training is undoubtedly good news, the loss of the Academy league is another painful blow for youngsters looking to make their way in the game.

Reserve grade rugby has already been scrapped and now youngsters face another year without a regular run of games.

The RFL’S Chief On-field Officer, Dave Rotheram, said: “This is another big step in the right direction for Rugby League’s Talent Pathway. It’s been a long time coming and everybody connected with the Academy game - players, clubs, coaches - is keen to get down to business and make up for lost time.

“It won’t be plain sailing and we have to tread carefully, especially in respect of player welfare. Covid continues to present considerable logistical challenges and young players will need time to adjust to a return to collision sport.

“We feel that a competitive league structure and full fixture list isn’t appropriate this year, so will instead work towards a formula that affords as many playing opportunities as possible for players who have missed so much in the last 12 months.”

Scholarship players at under 16 and 17 can also return at the same time.