As you may be aware, the fixture between Huddersfield Rugby Club and Hull Rugby was cancelled on Saturday morning. The reason for the cancellation was that Huddersfield were unable to meet the requirements by the RFU and NCA regarding the availability of qualified front row. Due to numerous injuries and player unavailability, the club only had the minimum availability for the fixture. Unfortunately, one of the front row players was taken to hospital on Saturday morning and we were unable find a replacement.
We were in contact with the NCA on Saturday morning as soon as we heard the news. It was decided that, for player safety, the correct decision was to cancel the fixture and let all parties know as soon as possible. After the fixture was cancelled, we were then notified the fixture was set to mark the 25th anniversary of Hull Rugby Club. We sincerely apologise for the disruption caused to players, supporters, members and sponsors of Hull Rugby Club. After many years of great relations between the two clubs, we hope this incident does not damage our ties and links for the future.
We have held urgent discussions this week with coaches and players, and can confirm the remainder of the league fixtures are secured and players have confirmed their availability. This incident has highlighted what a difficult season we have had, and the club has been working behind the scenes to put in place plans for the future to make sure this does not happen again.
More news on the future will follow in the next few weeks, but at the moment we must again offer our sincerest apologies the everyone at Hull Rugby Club. We wish them all the best for the future and hope that the next 25 years brings them much success both on and off the field.