Leading Super League referee Chris Kendall was not seen at any of the opening round games, however, he was heard at two of them with the official reduced to the status of video referee this past weekend.
That’s because Kendall, who first debuted as the on-field referee in Super League in 2015, is currently injured, something that he has confirmed via his LinkedIn.
The 33-year-old has risen to be one of the sport’s leading match officials, as evidenced by the number of big games that he been in charge of, both Challenge Cup and Super League Grand Finals, as well as on the international stage.
However, he was resigned to the video referee berth in round one of the 2026 season on account of injury with Kendall sharing a message explaining that he is raring to get back.
He could be in line for his 250th Super League game this year, a feat that only seven men have previously achieved with Kendall currently leading the way for games officiated in terms of active referees with 236.
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Super League referee confirms injury
Posting on LinkedIn, Kendall actually gave an insight into what it is that a video referee looks at when working, something that will likely give fans fresh perspective for when they next wish to bemoan a decision.
“Disappointed not to make the start line for the beginning of the Super League season due to injury,” Kendall posted.
“Instead I was on double duty at Wilmslow covering Friday nights fixture between Warrington and St Helens, followed by today’s game between Castleford and Wigan.
“Not quite the start I had planned, but looking forward to getting out on field soon.”
Phil Bentham, one of the seven men to have officiated more Super League games than Kendall, is the current head of match officials for the RFL and he responded to the post: “Be out there soon Chris.”
Serious About Rugby League have contacted the governing body for a fitness update on the official, and Kendall is hoping to be back in action for rounds three or four.
The RFL will confirm the referee and video referee appointments for this week’s Super League games on Tuesday afternoon, though it has already been confirmed that Kendall will be supporting Liam Moore as the video referee for the World Club Challenge between Hull KR and Brisbane Broncos.
There is of course a chance he picks up a Super League game as well and officiates in two matches, as he did last week.
Only last year did the RFL release a documentary that showed the work that the elite referees undergo with high praise for the production as well as a new-found respect for officials by many who watched it. It can be viewed here.
