I would consider going if it's 40 minutes of each code. I ain't going if it's hybrid rules. Pointless is what it is.

I'm hearing that it is set for Saturday 21st January with the u20s + O'Loughlin to play Huddersfield in his testimonial two days before. Poor show for O'Loughlin if true.

Does anyone seriously think that this isn't the future ultimately?

Whether we like it or not, economics are surely at some point going to dictate that one code of rugby is played, at least at professional level, on a global scale.

It may be that RL and RU still continue at amateur level in their own heartlands, but it doesn't make financial sense for rugby to continue to be divided. Not with massive TV deals up for grabs, etc.

Not that I necessarily think any of us will live to see it.

Paul, put the big spoon and fishing rod away.
Saracens are away in the Heineken Cup that weekend.

I love the way you never miss a chance to try and stir things.

As I said its what I heard (voices in my head). When in January would it be played then?


As per my original comments it looks like a load of "chanchers" just trying to get some free press for their hare-brained scheme (is that hare-brained or hair-brained?)

it'll be interesting to see if we get a union representative to help with rules, insights and training.....Edwards would be nice.

In fact Saracens have a game every weekend in January.

So a mid-week date at Wembley against Saracens reserves appears to be on the cards. I'm hearing Saracens are pushing Wigan for Thursday 19th January.


There is no way this fixture in any meaningful form (which is a term loosely used for this whole Billy Smart's promotion) is going ahead in January.

It's really peeing you off, all this, isn't it? You clearly care more than we do.

As a fan of sport in general, I sometimes think that things like this are just pure publicity stunts but I would be interested to see how a game played to these hybrid rules went:

13 men, essentially RL rules except:-
Contested scrums
1 "power play" allowed per set of six. The timing would be chosen by the attacking team and they would essentially be able to ruck and maul RU style.
If the ball is kicked to touch from a power play, the attacking side can choose a lineout.
2 points for a drop goal.

2 refs, one RU one RL.

Gives both sides a fair chance to play to their strengths.

Thursday 19th January is O'Loughlin's testimonial.