Rugby League Today: Manchester rebrand plan, cup attendances plus Love Rugby League Island contenders

James Gordon

What’s on site

Swinton are considering a rebrand to Manchester Lions to safeguard the future of the club, as non-Super League clubs face up to the reality of no central funding from 2021 onwards.

Wakefield winger Lee Kershaw, who started the season on loan at League One Oldham, has signed a new deal with the Super League club.

This week’s have your say asks why are Challenge Cup attendances declining?

Kallum Watkins’ wife has hit out at social media abuse received by the pair following the news about his exit from Leeds.

It’s State of Origin I this morning, 10.50am is when you need to sneak out the office or get it on your phone. Read our preview.

What’s on social

Swinton’s contenders for Love Rugby League Island…

Everyone’s at it…

Macgraff Leuluai faces a dilemma this evening, with Widnes taking on Featherstone at the same time as Love Island…

What’s in the papers

Toronto’s Darcy Lussick was refused entry back in to the UK following a city break in Europe, reports The Mirror.

Jarryd Hayne, having in the NRL, NFL and Rugby Sevens, has now registered with a local football club in New South Wales, according to The Guardian.

Allan Langer has had a statue of himself unveiled at Suncorp Stadium, home of Brisbane Broncos. The Warrington Guardian provide some background to one of their local club’s former players.

Birthdays

New Zealand superstar Roger Tuivasa-Sheck turns 26 today.

Also celebrating: ex-St Helens and Sydney Roosters forward Chris Flannery (39); York forward Sam Scott (29)

What’s on TV/radio

10am – Live State of Origin: Queensland v New South Wales – Sky Sports Arena

4.30pm – NRL Try Time – Sky Sports Arena

7.30pm – Live 1895 Cup: Barrow v Bradford – OuRLeague App

8.30pm – Rugby AM – FreeSports

9pm – Love Island – ITV2

Trivia

Swinton were founded in 1866, but haven’t played in the town for more than 27 years after being forced to sell their Station Road home. The last game played there was a local derby against Salford, who beat Swinton 26-18 in front of 3,487 spectators.

Features Love Island