Leigh and Wigan face independent probe into 12-month conduct

Leigh Leopards and Wigan Warriors will face an independent investigation into their conduct over the past 12 months.

The Rugby Football League (RFL), which governs rugby league in Britain, confirmed the probe on 22 September. Its board and the board of RL Commercial, the body that handles the commercial side of the sport, have written to both clubs to advise them, according to BBC Sport.

No detail has been given about who will lead the review. The RFL and RL Commercial said they will make no further comment until it is complete.

For anyone new to the sport, Super League is the top division of rugby league in Britain. It is a 13-a-side game, separate from rugby union, and its season ends with play-offs — knockout ties to decide who reaches the Grand Final.

The roots of this row go back to last October. Leigh owner Derek Beaumont said his side might boycott their Super League play-off semi-final at Wigan in a dispute over tickets. He pointed to an allocation of 4,800 for Leigh supporters.

Wigan said whoever reached that semi-final as their opponents would receive 5,000 tickets. The threat did not materialise. The tie went ahead as scheduled.

Wigan won that game 18-6. Leigh then submitted a formal complaint to the RFL the following week.

The investigation will now look wider than one night. It will cover the conduct and actions of both clubs and the governing body itself in relation to matters stretching over the last 12 months.

For fans, this means waiting. There will be no running commentary while the review does its work.