RL Today: Discussions to lower bans & special guest at England meeting

Steven Hughes
Clubs are meeting to possibly lower bans

Clubs to meet to discuss lower bans

Rugby League clubs will meet next week and discuss the possibility of lowering bans for players. (Rugby League Live).

Under the proposals, players would be fined for offences that are now worth one match. Equally players would get a one-match ban for what would now be a two-match ban, and so on.

Tommy Makinson previews Catalans cup clash

St Helens winger Tommy Makinson has called their Challenge Cup Quarter-Final against Catalans their biggest match of the year so far. (St Helens Star).

Makinson told St Helens Star: “The game is a great advert for rugby league and as a player it is so exciting to play in these matches.”

Hull KR chief on feel-good factor at the club

Hull KR chief executive Paul Lakin believes the club are on the rise, after selling out two matches in a row at Craven Park. (Daily Mirror).

Lakin told Daily Mirror: “There is a feelgood factor around the place about how we finished last season, reaching the Super League semis for the first time. And to secure the stadium and the chance of the land around it, really gives fans genuine hope and promise we can grow over the next few years.”

Rob Burrow reacts after being given MBE

Rob Burrow has described his shock at being made an MBE by the Princess Royal, saying he was “absolutely honoured”.

Read MoreRob Burrow ‘absolutely honoured’ to receive MBE

Reece Lyne backs Tom Johnstone to make England squad

Tom Johnstone is as good as any winger in Super League and must make England’s World Cup squad, according to teammate Reece Lyne.

Read MoreTom Johnstone must make England World Cup squad

Special guest at England meeting

England’s get-together earlier this week was boosted by the guest appearance from national football manager Gareth Southgate.

Read MoreEngland’s first session of the year boosted by Gareth Southgate guest appearance

Birthdays

Former Great Britain half-back Steve Nash turns 73 today. (7th April).

Also celebrating; Huddersfield centre Leroy Cudjoe (34), Catalans half-back Mitchell Pearce (33) and Salford forward Sitaleki Akauola (30).

Trivia

St Helens and Catalans played in the first Challenge Cup Final at the new Wembley in 2007. Saints won 30-8 to claim back-to-back cups. It is also unique as Leon Pryce and Paul Wellens shared the Lance Todd Trophy.

Read MoreWhitehaven add Wigan youngster Jack Bibby on loan