Freezing weather forces postponement of Royal Navy's Challenge Cup opener

Royal Navy Rugby League have confirmed that their opening Challenge Cup fixture against Mirfield ARLFC has been postponed due to current and forecast weather conditions.

The game, which was due to be played this Saturday in Calderdale, West Yorkshire, will not go ahead as the Met Office has issued new weather warnings covering areas including the northwest of England over the coming days. 

Mirfield ARLFC, who were set to host the Navy, released a statement saying that "every effort" was made to get the game on as planned.

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They said: "Every effort has been made to get the game on, but we cannot control the temperatures, which are preventing the field from thawing and becoming playable.

"We also have to bear in mind the logistics for our opponents, who are travelling from the south coast and have accommodation booked, which is why the decision has been taken today."

A spokesperson from Royal Navy Rugby League said: "Whilst we are obviously disappointed it comes as no real surprise with the recent weather scenario. 

"We also appreciate the efforts made by the Mirfield club to get the game on noting it is the first time they have been in the Challenge Cup and look forward to the re-arranged fixture once details are finalised."

The two teams have identified a provisional date of Saturday 18 January for the re-arranged game, which will be confirmed in due course following discussions from both clubs and sign-off by the Rugby Football League.