Wath Brow has pulled out of the Challenge Cup over concerns for player welfare.
The West Cumbrian club has announced it had conceded their tie at West Bowling.
It is understood that the club – a giant in the grassroots game – is concerned there is a conflict between RFL rules stipulating a non-contact period for amateur clubs -and the Challenge Cup’s early rounds.
Taking place from this weekend, the rounds are in the middle of the non-contact period.
In a statement issued yesterday, Wath Brow said: “The risk of injury is greatly amplified due to the undoubted lack of preparation time for all amateur clubs.
“The 2024 season for ourselves was not concluded until mid-October and again, your own counsel was to have a longer off season to allow players the much needed recovery time – regardless of Challenge Cup entry or not.
“We are extremely concerned about the potential for amateur clubs then playing well-conditioned professional clubs and the high risk those fixtures present.
“These cup games no longer present the financial rewards that were on offer years ago and in reality, often cost amateur clubs.
“Given the risks highlighted, the actual lack of reward and by actually following the RFL mandatory guidance, Wath Brow have considered all factors and are withdrawing from the competition.”
