The uncertainty of enforced layoff is tough to cope with, admits Leeds Rhinos' Alex Mellor

With the sport suspended until at least April 3, Rhinos’ players have been given two weeks off and Mellor revealed: “I’m just playing unlimited golf – hopefully my handicap will come down.”

That might be all right for a week or so, but Mellor admitted, like all players during the coronavirus crisis, he is beginning to get itchy feet.

Rhinos were five games into their Betfred Super League campaign – and on a four-match winning run – when a halt was called.

“I’ve had two games cancelled this season and I don’t think I’ve ever had one cancelled before in my career,” the former Huddersfield Giants man said.

“It’s a weird one to prepare for as you don’t know what you’re doing day to day. Safety is the main thing and you have to agree with whatever they go with, but the frustrating thing is you don’t know how long it’s for.

“You just go back to training pre-season style or time off, but no-one knows?”