Super League season to start in March

The Super League 2021 season will start on March 11, with the Grand Final to be played on October 9 at Old Trafford.

The later season start date is a result of the impact of Covid-19 on the extended 2020 campaign and the desire of Super League clubs to give players a much-needed period of recovery and a full pre-season.

The Magic Weekend also makes a return to the 2021 calendar. It will be played at St James’ Park, Newcastle, on 29/30 May.

Clubs will play 13 home fixtures in a 27-game Regular Season, including Magic Weekend. The later start results in a repeat of the six-team play-off format used in 2020.

Executive chairman Robert Elstone said: “With our players performing at the highest level, late into November, it is important that we give our players time to recover and prepare properly for the 2021 campaign.

“Many of them will be looking to force themselves into the selection decisions for the Rugby League World Cup and pre-season will be a key part of their plans.

“What is also clear with the ongoing uncertainty around Covid-19 is that a later start date gives us a better chance of playing more games in front of fans in 2021.”