BBC Sport will kick off their coverage of the 2026 Betfred Challenge Cup in Greater Manchester by streaming the First Round tie between Rochdale Mayfield and Ince Rose Bridge on Saturday January 10 (KO 1.30pm).
The hosts have a long history of producing outstanding Rugby League talent with England internationals Matty Lees and Matty Ashton both starting their careers playing at junior level for the club.
Their opponents, Ince Rose Bridge - who will feature in the NCL Premier Division next season -enjoyed an impressive Cup run in 2025 defeating Longhorns and Blackbrook in the opening rounds before loosing out to Featherstone Rovers in round three.
The Sportsman will also continue their extensive Challenge Cup coverage in 2026 – starting with Siddal versus Waterhead on Sunday January 11.
The fixture will see Leeds Rhinos fullback Jake Connor take on his new role as Siddal head coach. The National Conference League club recently confirmed his appointment with the 2025 Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel ready to lead from the front and drive the West Yorkshire club into a big 2026.
A full list of Round One fixtures can be found below – including an update of opponents for Orrell St James with the Wigan based team now set to face Oldham St Anne’s following Haresfinch’ withdrawal from the competition.
Betfred Challenge Cup Round One:
Saturday 10 January
Orrell St James v Oldham St Annes (KO 1.30pm)
Wigan St Judes v Leigh Miners Rangers (KO 2pm)
Rochdale Mayfield v Ince Rose Bridge (KO 1.30pm) – BBC iPlayer
Blackbrook v GB Police (KO 2pm)
Thatto Heath Crusaders v Seaton Rangers (KO 2pm)
Stanningley v Dewsbury Moor (KO 1.30pm)
Kings Cross Park v West Hull (KO 2pm)
Hunslet ARLFC v York Acorn (KO 1.30pm)
Heworth v RAF (KO 1.30pm)
Brighouse Rangers v Lock Lane (KO 1.30pm)
Woodhouse Warriors v Mirfield Spartans (KO 1.30pm)
Telford Raiders v London Chargers (KO 1pm)
Royal Navy v Hammersmith Hills Hoists (KO 1pm)
Sunday 11 January
Siddal ARLFC v Waterhead (KO 1.30pm) – The Sportsman
Bedford Tigers v Medway Dragons (KO 2.30pm)
British Army v Wests Warriors (KO 1.30pm)
Broncos (NI) v Aberavon Fighting Irish (KO 1.30pm)
