Hull FC World Club Series place still not certain as talks progress

[josie andrews]

Hull FC World Club Series place still not certain as talks progress

Hull FC are facing the prospect of missing out on making their debut in the World Club Series as negotiations continue to try and save the tournament.

However, the Mail understands Hull remain confident a deal can be struck to save
their participation in what will be a three game series against NRL opposition.

The RFL are holding discussions with NRL counterparts in an effort to rescue the 2017 event after a string of Australian clubs rejected an offer to travel to England for the competition.

Super League winners Wigan Warriors will play NRL champions Cronulla Sharks, with that game for the World Club Challenge expected to take place at the DW Stadium in mid-February.

What had been expected to be a three game series, with the World Club Challenge as the finale like in recent years, was cast into doubt after NRL sides led by Minor Premiers and Grand Final runners-up Melbourne Storm turned down an invitation to take part.

It has since emerged an agreement was only in place for two NRL teams to travel to England for the 2017 event, not three as had been anticipated.

Talks are due to continue today to find an opponent for Super League Minor Premiers and Grand Final losers Warrington Wolves, with scheduling a match for Tony Smith's men a first priority.

The RFL are confident a second game in England will take place and are hoping for a resolution in the next 48 hours, placing FC as Challenge Cup winners further down the priority list.

However, hopes of Hull competing in the series for the first time in the club's history are not dead yet.

The Mail has been told FC are very keen to hold a game at the KCOM Stadium and have a strong case with an anticipated bumper crowd expected should they find an opponent, with St George Illawarra Dragons one suggestion, while Brisbane Broncos could take on Warrington.

The RFL are also understood to be keen to see FC participate and have informed the club they will do all they can to include them, although no guarantees have been made.

With their pre-season plans on hold until they discover their fate, Hull are hoping for confirmation of the RFL's plans in the next few days with further talks expected today.


Meanwhile, fixtures for the new Super League season are set to be released on Sunday.


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