RFL secure sponsor for 1895 Cup

James Gordon

The RFL have confirmed AB Sundecks as the sponsor of the new 1895 Cup, ahead of its second round this weekend.

AB Sundecks are a sponsor of Leigh, with Derek Beaumont one of the company’s directors, along with Laura Beaumont (pictured with Ralph Rimmer).

They will gain exposure at Wembley, with the final of the new competition taking place immediately after the Challenge Cup final in August.

RFL Chief Executive, Ralph Rimmer, said: “We’re delighted to announce this partnership with AB Sundecks and look forward to working with our new partners in the coming weeks and months.

“Rugby League is a summer sport and ‘sundecks’ says ‘sunshine’ so this is a perfect match.

“Wembley Stadium has been the setting for many of the game’s greatest matches and I’m hopeful that the 1895 Cup Final will create even more magical memories for players and fans alike.”

The introduction of AB Sundecks 1895 Cup gives Championship and League 1 clubs – and their fans – an additional opportunity to reach Wembley, on top of the established Challenge Cup route. 12 Championship clubs feature in the last 16, alongside four from League 1.

Among them only Sheffield Eagles and Bradford Bulls have played in a Challenge Cup Final at Wembley during the Super League era (i.e. since 1996), and none since the Challenge Cup Final returned to its spiritual home in 2007.

There are five ties this Sunday (2 June).

  • Leigh Centurions v Workington Town
  • Oldham v Doncaster
  • Dewsbury Rams v Swinton Lions
  • York City Knights v Newcastle Thunder
  • Batley Bulldogs v Rochdale Hornets

The remaining fixtures take place on Wednesday 5 June.

  • Barrow Raiders v Bradford Bulls
  • Widnes Vikings v Featherstone Rovers
  • Halifax v Sheffield Eagles
Features Barrow Raiders