LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The upcoming match between St Helens and Leigh Leopards at the Totally Wicked Stadium on Thursday carries more significance than just a typical Super League rivalry, as it marks the first encounter between the two teams in 2025, despite the season nearing its end.
Reports from BBC highlight that while some teams have faced each other up to three times this season, St Helens and Leigh have not yet met.
This irregularity raises questions about the fairness of the Super League match schedule.
The scheduling process behind Super League fixtures is complex and unique, prompting inquiries into how matchups are determined.
Factors contributing to the schedule include "loop fixtures," a contentious element of the fixture list that affects team encounters.
BBC Sport aims to unravel the reasons behind the apparent inequities, exploring whether the skewed schedule has significant implications for the teams involved.
The investigation highlights the challenges and controversies that accompany the Super League's crowded season, particularly regarding competitive balance among the teams.