The RFL have announced that the League 1 campaign in 2021 will be delayed and begin later in the spring.
This is largely down to the current public health situation and likely implications on the return of fans to elite sport.
League 1 clubs will be cleared to begin a staged process in February. Stage 1 plus, which permits socially-distanced, non-contact training outdoors, will be followed by the intention of moving to Stage 2, which permits contact training.
All clubs will be required to satisfy the RFL that they are able to meet strict conditions around testing and biosecurity.
North Wales Crusaders chief executive Andy Moulsdale is in full support of the RFL’s decision to delay the start of the 2021 season.
He said: “In what has been a very difficult ten months for everyone, we believe this gives the best opportunity for the players and staff to return to training when hopefully it is safer to do so.
“It’ll also give us the best chance to allow our fans and sponsors to attend games, reducing the amount we potentially need to play behind-closed-doors.
“The club will have conversations with the RFL around League 1 clubs taking part in the Challenge Cup. Our intention would be participate if we’re able to.
“We’ll continue to work with RFL and all clubs on the challenges that COVID-19 has brought our game.
“I’d like to say a massive thank you to all our fans and sponsors for the support over the last year.”
Season tickets for the 2021 campaign are now on sale online as a way for supporters to get behind the club.
