The hugely successful ‘745 game’ will return in September, as former stars of rugby league and rugby union face off in the unique concept for charity.
With rules blended from both codes, the event sees icons of yesteryear pull the boots back on, as they raise vital funds for three incredible Motor Neurone Disease charities.
The 4Ed Foundation, named in honour of former Leicester Tigers player Ed Slater, the Rob Burrow Discretionary Trust and the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, named after former Scottish international Doddie Weir, will all share the proceeds, as they have done in the past two instalments.
Slater, Burrow and Weir have all been trailblazers in raising both awareness and funds for the MND community, with the recently-knighted Sir Kevin Sinfield another man who has been imperative to the fundraising.
The 745 game gets its name due to the iconic squad numbers the trio used to wear, and this time it will be Slater’s former club that hosts the event.
This year’s instalment will be held at Leicester Tigers’ home ground, and it will form part of a double-header, as the Tigers take on Saracens in the opening game of the Gallagher Premiership season on September 27.
Player announcements will be made in due course, but former England international and star of BBC TV Series The Celebrity Traitors, Joe Marler, has already confirmed his attendance.
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“The 745 Game started as an idea between friends and has grown into something that means so much to so many people.” Slater said. “Every year, it brings together the rugby family to raise awareness and vital funds for those living with MND.”
“Hosting the game at Mattioli Woods Welford Road feels particularly meaningful to me given my connection to Leicester Tigers and the memories I’ve made there.
“We want the day to be a celebration of Rob, Doddie and everyone affected by MND, while continuing to push for a future where this disease no longer exists.”
Tickets for the event will go on general sale on Tuesday 11 August, with Leicester Tigers season ticket holders getting first priority. Leicester will donate £3 for every ticket sold to the three charities.
