Rugby league tournament to begin on Friday

Dubai: Four of the UAE’s top rugby league teams will battle it out for honours in the TBWA/RAAD Rugby League Cup starting on Friday at Dubai Sports City.

Dubai Wasps, Abu Dhabi Harlequins, Al Ain Amblers and Mana Dubai will compete in the month-long event, with a touch rugby tournament running parallel.

UAE Rugby League (UAE RL) CEO Sol Mokdad, who helped establish rugby league here seven years ago, said the sport was on the rise. “The popularity of rugby league is growing and brings together a group of passionate players and fans,” Mokdad said. “This year, the excitement growing in anticipation of the tournament has been the greatest to date and we have some fantastic supporters on board.”

Reda Raad, of sponsors TBWA\RAAD, said: “We are delighted to be able to support the UAE RL this year. As a group, it’s in our DNA to look-out for fresh ideas and exciting ventures. The league is a great initiative that has been generating more and more excitement in the region each season. We can’t wait for kick-off and wish all the players good luck.”

The UAE RL will also be working closely with Bespoke Wellness this year, who will be providing all physiotherapy and fitness services.

Mokdad said: “Thank you to our sponsors and partners, TBWA\RAAD, Bespoke Wellness, Sports Talk ME, Masafi, Dubai Sports City, and Sci-MX Sports Nutrition, who have been an integral part of taking rugby league to the next level for the future.”

Matches will begin at 3.30pm on Friday at Dubai Sports City. Attendance is free.