Super League side Salford Red Devils have revealed they will be sending a team to Gloucester to take on the rugby union heavyweights in a unique cross-code game involving regulations from both codes.
The match, which takes place at Kingsholm Stadium on October 9, will be the first in an annual series of hybrid games.
Salford Red Devils owner Marwan Koukash has revealed he is looking forward to the event, saying: “This game will be a exciting celebration of both codes of Rugby.
Mitsubishi have been a fantastic supporter of the Red Devils since coming on board, and I’m really looking forward to working with our friends at Gloucester Rugby Club to create a one of a kind sporting event.
This is a great opportunity to promote the Red Devils brand as part of a high profile fixture, whilst fundraising for charities that are important to us. Obviously I’ll be hoping to see the Salford Red Devils invitational team come out on top. It’ll be great to see the Legends of League rucking and mauling with the best of rugby union.”
Stephen Vaughan, CEO Gloucester Rugby, is anticipating a “fantastic day with lots of great names on the hallowed turf of Kingsholm as part of our launch weekend for our 125 years at Kingsholm anniversary.”
Gloucester Rugby has nominated ‘Rugby for Heroes’ and the ‘Gloucester Rugby Community Charity’ as their causes, while the Red Devils have chosen ‘Rugby League Cares’ and the ‘Red Devils Foundation’, as their good causes.
Union players taking part will include Mike Tindall, James Simpson Daniel and Olivier Azam led by coach Jim Hamilton. The league team will include Adrian Morley, Sean Long, Kylie Leuluai and dual-code star Iestyn Harris, coached by Ian Watson.
Former Salford Red Devils, England and Great Britain player Adrian Morley said: “This match is going to be so special for a number of reasons, but to have the support of Mitsubishi Motors is the icing on the cake.”
