Harry is host for Rugby League World Cup draw

ROYALS: First official public engagement for Duke of Sussex since decision to take step back from front-rank role

The Duke of Sussex has carried out his first official public engagement since he and his wife quit as senior royals, triggering a major crisis for the monarchy.

Harry was at Buckingham Palace – the official residence of his grandmother the Queen, who has now sanctioned his decision – where he was hosting the Rugby League World Cup 2021 draw.

Dozens of photographers lined a makeshift mini rugby pitch on the manicured lawns in the palace garden, waiting for the duke to arrive.

He was welcomed by RLW2021 chief executive Jon Dutton and non-executive director Stuart Cain.

Children from a local school gave a rugby demonstration.

Royal aides are working around the clock to find solutions to the crisis caused by Harry and Meghan’s plans to step back as senior royals, become financially independent and split their time between the UK and Canada.

The duke chatted to the youngsters from St Vincent de Paul Catholic Primary School in Westminster during a pause in their exhibition match, shaking each of their hands in turn.

He is remaining in the UK into next week, taking part in meetings as talks continue on his future.

Meghan has been staying in Canada with baby Archie. She has carried out visits to charities in Vancouver including to Justice For Girls, which campaigns for an end to violence, poverty and racism for teenagers.

Harry was also introduced to two ambassadors for the global tournament – England and Leeds Rhino wheelchair rugby league star James Simpson, and Jodie Cunningham, who plays in the Women’s Super League for St Helens.

The global tournament being staged by the UK is the pinnacle event for rugby league and will take place during October and November in 17 cities across England.

The duke was announced as patron of the Rugby Football League in December 2016, but it is not yet known what will happen to this patronage and his 13 others as he carves out his new life.

In the palace’s grand throne room the live draws for the World Cup were staged, with Harry joined by rugby league and union great Jason Robinson and Dame Katherine Grainger, chairwoman of UK Sport, who also took part in the ceremony.

Harry spoke about sport having the power to save lives.

The duke pulled the first ball, which decided the opening game for England’s men’s team. The country picked was Samoa.

Picture: SWpix.com/Rex/Shutterstock.