The ‘745 Game’: A Historic Cross-Code Showdown
This Sunday, Headingley will host the historic ‘745 Game‘, a cross-code showdown between rugby league and rugby union legends. The event was the brainchild of former Leeds Rhinos player Rob Burrow and ex-Leicester and Gloucester rugby union star Ed Slater, before Burrow’s untimely passing due to Motor Neurone Disease in June 2022 at just 41 years old.
The ‘745 Game’ name pays tribute to the jersey numbers worn by Burrow (7), Slater (4), and Scottish rugby union great Doddie Weir (5), who also lost his battle with MND last year. This groundbreaking match aims to raise awareness and support for MND communities across the country, and could potentially become an annual fixture.
Star-Studded Squads Unveiled
With the star-studded squads now revealed, excitement is building for the 3pm kick-off. The rugby league side boasts a wealth of icons, including former Rhinos players Danny McGuire, Kylie Leuluai, Keith Senior, Gareth Ellis and Luke Gale. Super League and NRL champion Adrian Morley and dual-code legend Gary Connolly will also feature. Love Island’s Jacques O’Neill, currently without a club, will make his return to the field.
The union squad is equally impressive, with names like Danny Cipriani, Geordan Murphy, Billy Twelvetrees and Matt Banahan set to take the pitch. The hybrid rules will see two referees – one from each code – managing the complex laws, which include unlimited tackles in the team’s own half, uncontested scrums and line-outs, and one-on-one ball steals before the tackle is complete.
“This unique event promises to be a must-watch for rugby league and union enthusiasts alike, blending the best of both codes for a worthy cause.”
As the rugby betting sites gear up for this historic clash, fans will be eager to see how the cross-code stars adapt to the ‘745 Game’ format.
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