Christmas could come early for Super League, says Leeds Rhinos chief

Four full rounds of fixtures have already been postponed because of the coronavirus crisis and there is still no indication as to when the competition might resume or under what format.

Moving the Grand Final back at least a month and scrapping the six additional ‘loop fixtures’ are two measures under consideration, but Hetherington is not in favour of playing fewer matches and believes a December finish is possible to fulfil a full 29-round campaign.

“There is a commitment from Super League and the RFL to do whatever it takes to fulfil our season,” said Hetherington.

“That will inevitably mean an extension of the season, probably up to Christmas. [We want] to deliver all the games in the fixture list and the Challenge Cup and to fulfil our commitments to broadcasters, sponsors, season ticket holders and all the stakeholders in the game.”

Hetherington confirmed Rhinos’ staff – including players – have now been informed of proposed wage reductions as the club looks to tighten its belt.

He said: “Salary adjustments are just one part of an overall plan to ensure, first of all the survival of our business and secondly, to try and keep everyone in employment.”

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