Championship side North Wales Crusaders have forfeited this weekend’s game against Midlands Hurricanes in the 1895 Cup.
The news comes following a statement last week confirming that their majority owners have withdrawn from funding the club, leaving the Welsh side in doubt.
Last year’s League One winners are currently 15th in the amalgamated Championship table, having won three matches out of nine.
The club have had a number of monetary issues over the past few months, including reports of player wages being delayed or absent.
As a result of the financial issues, the Crusaders have opted to withdraw from the 1895 Cup this weekend to allow them “sufficient breathing space” before their next Championship fixture, which takes place on May 3.
The club released a statement via their Facebook page which reads:
“After consulting with Midlands Hurricanes, and considering our focus on stabilising things for the playing group and management team, we have agreed not to play the 1895 cup fixture this weekend.
“This we believe will provide sufficient breathing space for the Crusaders ready for the next league fixture.”
There has been no official confirmation from the RFL over the sanctions North Wales will receive for their actions, but Midlands are expected to receive a bye to the next round of the 1895 Cup.
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