Ansell departs RFL

Rugby league referee Sam Ansell has left the RFL.

The RFL has stated it is for Answell to “pursue other career opportunities”.

Ansell was stood down in June pending an international investigation.

He was promoted to the full time team in January, after 10 years as a part-time referee across the Kingstone Press Championship and Kingstone Press League 1 competitions.

Ansell has taken charge of a number of high profile games in the Championship including Leigh Centurions v Bradford Bulls at the Summer Bash in Blackpool this year.

RFL Chief Operating Officer Ralph Rimmer said: “Sam’s been a great addition to the group of full-time referees this year and we would like to thank him for what he has contributed to the game over the last ten years.

“We respect his decision to pursue other career opportunities and wish him the best of luck. We haven’t ruled out Sam returning as a part-time match official at some point in the future.”