28 Oct 2024
Legendary rugby stars come together to support hybrid clash
Two of the greatest names in the history of Rugby League and Rugby Union have thrown their weight behind the groundbreaking 745 Game, which will be hosted at AMT Headingley Rugby Stadium on Sunday 17th November, with a new hybrid game of rugby seeing internationals from both codes go head to head for the first time.
Kevin Sinfield CBE and Jonny Wilkinson CBE are two of the most recognisable faces in world rugby and both will be at AMT Headingley to support former Rugby Union player Ed Slater, who was diagnosed with MND in 2022, and in memory of Rugby League hero Rob Burrow, who passed way from MND this year.
World Cup winner Wilkinson will join Sinfield at the venue where he re-wrote history as the most successful captain of all time before the game to speak to guests in the Howard Suite.
The distinctive name for the match, The 745 Game, comes from the numbers worn by Burrow (7) and Slater (4) along with Scottish Rugby Union legend Doddie Weir (5). The match itself, which will kick off at 3pm, will see former stars of both codes come together for the ground breaking clash, which is hoped could become an annual event to support MND communities across the country.
In the world of rugby, the bond between Rugby Union and Rugby League is strong, but now it’s united in an even greater cause. The 745 Game was born out of a heartfelt WhatsApp conversation between Burrow and Slater, two friends facing the same battle with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) almost a year ago. In tribute to Burrow, Slater has continued to develop the idea and now a date has been set in the calendar.
All funds raised from The 745 Game will be split three ways, directly supporting the MND community. These funds will help further research into treatments and potential cures, and also provide critical support to families living with MND. From funding extensive research to offering monetary grants for essential equipment & supporting smaller MND charities, this game aims to change lives.
Those set to play in the 13-a-side game include former England Rugby Union internationals Danny Cipriani, Billy Twelvetrees, Matt Banahan, Jordan Crane, Tom Youngs and Tom Wood up against England Rugby League internationals like Keith Senior, Adrian Morley, Luke Gale, Paul McShane, Ryan Bailey, Danny McGuire and Gareth Ellis.
Commenting on The 745 Game Sinfield said, “I think the concept for the game is absolutely brilliant and its lovely that everyone has pulled together to make sure Rob’s last project is realised. Unfortunately, because I set off on our next fundraising challenge on 1st December, I can’t be involved on the pitch but I will be there and am looking forward to chatting to guests before the game especially about the great work that Ed Slater is doing and sharing memories of Rob and Doddie. I think it speaks volumes about how special all three are that so many players, including myself and Jonny, are ready to do whatever it takes to support this game.”
Ed Slater added, “Any rugby fan, of either code, will want to be in the Howard Suite on 17th November to hear Kev and Jonny speak. What those two guys achieved in their careers is incredible, especially with their goal kicking and nerve under pressure. It will be fascinating to hear from them both and will be the perfect set up for the action on the field. I would like to thank everyone who has supported The 745 Game so far, the response has been brilliant and it would be great to see a bumper crowd at AMT Headingley for the game.”
Hospitality packages for this game, including hearing from Kevin Sinfield and Jonny Wilkinson includes a three-course meal in the Howard Suite along with welcome drink on arrival, cushioned central seats directly outside the facility, half and full time refreshments and the chance to meet other international stars who will be supporting the day. For booking enquiries please email sales@therhinos.co.uk