RL Today: Matt Parcell linked with NRL return & players react to Easter weekend schedule

Josh McAllister
Matt Parcell

Matt Parcell linked with NRL return

Hull KR hooker Matt Parcell has been linked to a return to the NRL. (Hull Daily Mail)

The 29-year-old Australian could be set to sign with either the Dolphins or Brisbane for the 2023 season and beyond. He had previously played for the Broncos and Manly Sea Eagles before making the switch to Super League.  

Players have say on Easter schedule

Plenty of players have had their say on the busy Easter weekend schedule in Super League.

Huddersfield’s Tui Lolohea told Love Rugby League he’s not so keen on the hectic schedule.

He said: “I feel like somebody has just come up with the idea of making money. We play like five games in 19 days which doesn’t seem right.

“It can make or break a season I think. Injuries are part of it. I’m touching wood, but some teams who are going well could have key players go down and they are obviously part of the reason why you are winning. If we can control what we can do, perform the best we can then I think that is all you can ask for.”

Castleford’s Joe Westerman also told Examiner Live that he’s not sure if his body will cope with two games in five days.

Zak Hardaker makes first comments since being dropped

Wigan’s Zak Hardaker has not been named for their Good Friday clash after dropping below standards off the field, Matt Peet confirmed.

Hardaker, 30, has since responded, posting on social media: “Just a stumble. Learn and move. Don’t read too much into things.”

First French Super League derby

More than 8,000 supporters witnessed the first ever French Super League derby on Thursday night in Perpignan. Steve McNamara’s side claimed the bragging rights with a 18-10 scoreline, despite being a man down in the second half.

Canberra’s act of kindness

Canberra Raiders co-captain Jarrod Croker had a surprise for one of their fans during Thursday night’s game.

Sam Tomkins names biggest derby

Catalans full-back Sam Tomkins has had his say on what he thinks Super League’s biggest derby is.

The England international says St Helens and Wigan hold that title.

He told Sky Sports:“It’s the biggest and it’s the best,” Tomkins said on Sky Sports.

“There’s 130 years of history between two clubs that are very close geographically.”

Birthdays

Former NRL, Tonga and Australia prop forward Willie Mason turns 42 today (April 15).

Also celebrating; Ex-Super League and England hooker Shaun Lunt (35), former NRL centre Blake Ayshford (34), ex London Broncos forward Daniel Harrison (34), Widnes winger Brad Holroyd (22) and St Helens and Leigh hooker Josh Simm (22).

Trivia

Chris Hill made his 500th appearance last night against Leeds.

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