Leeds staying at home to be challenged
Leeds Rhinos will host the 2012 World Club Challenge on home territory with chief executive Gary Hetherington admitting plans to play in Dubai will need more preparation time.
Australian champions Manly Sea Eagles had initially wanted to host it and also suggested playing in the Middle East.
But it has now been earmarked for the weekend of February 17-19, either at Headingley or Elland Road, with Hetherington adding: “To take the game to a neutral venue like Dubai should remain an aspiration for the NRL and RFL but this would require at least 12 months’ lead time.
“I’m sure the RFL will be investigating a number of possible venues and we look forward to further discussions.”