Importance Score: 65 / 100 🔴
Rugby League Ashes Series Returns to England After Two Decades
The highly anticipated Rugby League Ashes series is set to electrify England as it returns for the first time since 2003, backed by a prominent music promoter known for supporting major events like the Oasis reunion. England will host reigning world champions Australia in this thrilling three-Test contest, with venues confirmed as Wembley Stadium, Everton’s Bramley-Moore Dock, and Leeds Headingley. Dates are set for consecutive Saturdays in late October and early November, promising a captivating showdown for rugby league enthusiasts.
Key Match Details and Venues
The Rugby League Ashes series between England and Australia will unfold across three consecutive Saturdays in October and November:
- Test 1: Saturday, October 25th – Wembley Stadium, London
- Test 2: Saturday, November 1st – Bramley-Moore Dock, Liverpool (Everton’s new stadium)
- Test 3: Saturday, November 8th – Headingley, Leeds (Leeds Rhinos’ home ground)
All three matches are scheduled for a 2:30 PM kick-off and will be broadcast live on the BBC.
High Expectations for Crowd Attendance
Organizers are optimistic about achieving near-capacity crowds for all three Rugby League Ashes Tests against Australia. They are especially confident in selling out the Liverpool and Leeds fixtures, aiming for a substantial attendance in London. The decision to host the series in England followed discussions last winter that resulted in a late venue switch from Australia.
Music Promoter’s Pivotal Role
Simon Moran, owner of the Warrington Wolves rugby league club and a seasoned music promoter renowned for staging concerts by globally recognized bands, has played a crucial role in bringing the Rugby League Ashes series to England. Moran’s involvement was instrumental in securing prestigious venues and providing marketing support for the event.
Statements from Rugby League Commercial
Rhodri Jones, Chief of Rugby League Commercial, expressed his appreciation for Moran’s contribution: “He’s supporting us and he’s helped us with venues and marketing; he’s completely committed.”
Jones emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating: “It’s a significant stride forward for the sport. This marks the first instance of a club owner partnering with us on such a venture. His involvement is likened to the innovative approach of clubs like Wigan and Warrington venturing to Las Vegas. He has been invaluable and will be instrumental in shaping our game promotion strategies.”
Headingley’s Strategic Importance
With Headingley’s capacity around 20,000, organizers anticipate a rapid sell-out when tickets become available next week. This anticipated demand at the Leeds venue is expected to generate heightened interest in the initial two Rugby League Ashes Tests. England coach Shaun Wane and Rhodri Jones have defended the selection of Headingley as a potential decider venue, with Jones highlighting it as “Super League’s premier ground.”
Ambitions for Wembley and Bramley-Moore Dock
Jones outlined ambitious attendance targets for the London and Liverpool Tests. The Bramley-Moore Dock Test will be among the inaugural non-football events at the newly constructed Everton stadium. “It accommodates just over 52,000, and our objective is a complete sell-out,” Jones affirmed. “Anticipating a quick sell-out at Headingley should further propel ticket sales for Wembley and Everton.”
Reflecting on past successes, Jones added, “The 2013 World Cup semi-final at Wembley drew over 60,000 spectators, making surpassing that figure a natural goal. Reaching towards 80,000 attendees would be a tremendous success.”
England’s Preparation Strategy
Coach Shaun Wane confirmed that England will forgo a summer Test match, resulting in an approximate 12-month interval between games leading up to the Rugby League Ashes opener at Wembley. However, Wane believes this extended period will not hinder their preparation, with several training camps scheduled throughout the year. “I genuinely don’t believe we require a summer Test,” Wane stated. “The opportunity to lead my nation against the world’s best players… we will be fully prepared. This series is the pinnacle of my coaching career, and we are determined to seize this opportunity.”