RL Today: Bradford injury blow, Gibson retires & Challenge Cup recap

A wrap up of the latest news in rugby league.

What’s on site

Challenge Cup round-up: Gavin Henson’s league debut, Featherstone impress & Swinton progress.

Is it possible to be too passionate about rugby league? It is a question being asked in the far south of France by Benoit Albert as he tries to put the reins on Elite One side Palau Broncos.

Big interview with French Federation president Luc Lacoste.

“He is big, athletic and strong” – Dan Norman tipped for bright future with St Helens.

Huddersfield in a “real good spot” as a team, says forward Ronan Michael.

What’s in the papers

Bradford suffer injury blow as Sam Hallas breaks jaw, reports The Telegraph & Argus.

Former Leeds and Wakefield payer Ashley Gibson confirms retirement after revealing diabetes diagnosis, reports Yorkshire Live.

Jamie Shaul opens up on his injury, Jake Connor, positive thinking and adopting Albert Kelly’s dog, reports Hull Live.

Castleford veteran Grant Millington says departing coach has ‘transformed’ the club, reports Yorkshire Evening Post.

Warrington prop Robbie Mulhern’s life and career so far, reports Warrington Guardian.

What’s on social

One of the best names in rugby league?

🏃‍♂️ GERONIMO!!

🦁 A huge late play from @Swinton_Lions all-but seals the tie! pic.twitter.com/3159Ys0ZrW

— Betfred Challenge Cup (@TheChallengeCup) March 21, 2021

A lovely moment for Thomas Minns yesterday…

My first competitive start in 3 years. So buzzing for that try, honestly. That one was for my Grandmother who I promised I would get back into Rugby before she passed away. Also to anyone out there that is thinking of quitting, tough times don't last, tough people do! #UTR https://t.co/2ZggXySeZb

— MinnsMind – Thomas Minns (@Minnsie1) March 21, 2021

Rangi Chase is just a joy to watch!

Rangi Chase being Rangi Chase 🔥💫

🏉 @WWRaidersRL 🆚 @WidnesRL
🏆 @Betfred #ChallengeCup
📺 @BBCSport: https://t.co/aNRVH756Qp pic.twitter.com/KmcYbWQcQA

— Betfred Challenge Cup (@TheChallengeCup) March 21, 2021

What’s on TV/Radio

Rugby League Takeover – Sky Sports Arena (All day Mon-Fri)

SL Countdown – Sky Sports Main Event/News/Arena (4:30pm)

NRL 360 – Sky Sports Arena (5pm)

The Final Hooter podcast: Newcastle Thunder’s ambitions, Eamon O’Carroll on coaching & Jack Cogger chats Huddersfield.

The Final Hooter podcast: Adrian Lam reflects, Steve Price’s 2021 hopes & Warrington duo pay tribute to Chris Hill.

Sky Sports’ Golden Point podcast is available to download now.

The latest Forty20 LIVE podcast is out now.

The latest 5 Live Rugby League Podcast is out now, hosted by Dave Woods.

Birthdays

Former Australia international David Gillespie turns 57 today.

Also celebrating; former England and Scotland international Graeme Horne (36), ex-Dewsbury hooker Dom Speakman (27) and Huddersfield prop Oliver Wilson (21).

Trivia

Today’s trivia is courtesy of editor James Gordon – yesterday’s win for Widnes in Simon Finnigan’s first game was the biggest win in a (permanent) coach’s first game for the club since Neil Kelly started with a 64-4 win over Hunslet in 2001.

Subscribe to The Final Hooter on Apple Podcasts and get involved with the free-to-play Fantasy Rugby League 2021.

Rugby League Nostalgia is here! Get involved with Love Rugby League’s new group on Facebook to share all your rugby league nostalgia and celebrate the rich heritage of our sport.