March kick-off for Super League 2021 with Grand Final return to Old Trafford and Magic Weekend back at St James’ Park

After plenty of discussions surrounding a start date given the ravaging impact of Covid-19 on the current campaign, it is hoped the agreed date will satisfy one principal aim.

With this current season not due to finish until tomorrow night, when Wigan Warriors face St Helens in the Grand Final, clubs are keen to give players as much recovery time as possible and a full-pre-season.

Super League ordinarily starts around the first days of February or end of January.

The Dacia Magic Weekend also returns after being cancelled this year and it will be played at St James’ Park, Newcastle, on May 29/30.

Clubs will play 13 home fixtures in a 27-game Regular Season, including the Magic Weekend, and - as has eventually been the case this year - a six-team play-off format will be used.

Super League executive chairman Robert Elstone said: “With our players performing at the highest level, late into November, it is important that we give our players time to recover and prepare properly for the 2021 campaign.

“Many of them will be looking to force themselves into the selection decisions for the Rugby League World Cup and pre-season will be a key part of their plans.

“What is also clear with the ongoing uncertainty around Covid-19 is that a later start date gives us a better chance of playing more games in front of fans in 2021.”

Fixtures for the 2021 Betfred Super League season will be released in January.