3 minute read

Relegation should be suspended this season due to disruption caused by coronavirus to Super League UK, Toronto boss.

The chairman of bottom-of-the-table Toronto believes relegation in the UK Super League should be suspended this season due to disruption caused by coronarivus.

Bob Hunter claims it is not for selfish reasons, saying "other clubs" have voiced the same opinion.

Despite signing superstar Sonny Bill Williams, the Wolfpack have struggled since being promoted to top flight this season.

They are favourites for automatic relegation after slumping to a 0-6 record before the competition was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic on March 16.

However, Hunter said his stance was not motivated by self interest.

"It has nothing to do with our zero and six record, and I know we're not alone in expressing that (view to postpone relegation)," he said.

"We, amongst other clubs, have voiced our opinion that we don't think that this is a good year to do it (relegation) but that's a Rugby Football League decision.

"The year has been so disruptive, I just don't think it's fair to any team."

The Wolfpack have stood down office staff in Toronto while Williams - who reportedly signed a $10 million, two year deal - told Sky Sports UK last week that he was willing to take a pay cut to "keep the game afloat".

Hunter said the pandemic may also lead to Toronto playing many of their home games in the UK once the competition resumes.

"There's lots of draft fixtures floating around," he said.

"They're looking at extending the season by a couple of months and trying to bring in mid-week matches which are going to be tough on the players.

"It could end up that we have to play more games in the UK than we had planned but if that is the only hardship then we stand by what the league wants to do."