Here's a list of Challenge Cup ties & pre-season games called off as rugby league hit by freezing weather
A second pre-season game in West Yorkshire has been cancelled because of a frozen pitch.
Batley Bulldogs today (Friday) announced their home fixture against Betfred Championship rivals Sheffield Eagles is off. A club statement said: “Unfortunately Sunday’s pre-season friendly against Sheffield Eagles at the Fox’s Biscuits Stadium has been cancelled due to adverse weather conditions affecting both the pitch and the terraces. We apologise for any inconvenience.”
The decision means Bulldogs’ Boxing Day win against Dewsbury Rams was their only pre-season hit out ahead of next weekend’s Championship opener at home to Featherstone Rovers. Castleford Tigers are another team who will be kicking their heels this weekend after their planned home game against second-tier Oldham, scheduled for Saturday, was called off on Thursday due to a frozen pitch.
The Challenge Cup first round, involving 34 clubs from the community game, is due to be played this weekend, but is also set to be hit by the recent bad weather. Postponed games so far include Rochdale Mayfield’s home tie against Ince Rose Bridge, London Chargers’ visit to Telford Raiders and King Cross (Halifax) v West Hull.
The game at Mayfield was due to be streamed live on the BBC iPlayer. Coverage has now been switched to Thatto Heath Crusaders’s home clash with Seaton Rangers (2pm).
Pre-season matches called off: Castleford Tigers v Oldham, Batley Bulldogs v Sheffield Eagles.
Challenge Cup ties postponed: Rochdale Mayfield v Ince Rose Bridge, Telford Raiders v London Chargers, King Cross Park v West Hull.