Rugby legends unite in 2024 745 Game for motor neurone disease charity

A sold-out crowd roared as retired icons returned for a cause close to their hearts. Two epic matches later, the legacy of Burrow, Slater, and Weir lives on.

, and Administrator

2026 May 18 . 5:02 AM

1 min read

The image shows a poster with two rugby union footballers doing their duty over 90% have enlisted... — The image shows a poster with two rugby union footballers doing their duty over 90% have enlisted British athletes. The poster has text written on it, likely providing information about the athletes and their duties.

Rugby legends unite in 2024 745 Game for motor neurone disease charity

Legends from rugby union and league faced off on Sunday in the 2024 745 Game, raising funds for motor neurone disease (MND) charities. The annual event, blending players and rules from both codes, took place at Headingley, home of Leeds Rhinos, with the rugby league side securing a 33-21 victory. The 745 Game honours the shirt numbers of three MND campaigners: Rob Burrow (7), Ed Slater (4), and Doddie Weir (5). This year’s match saw former England prop Joe Marler return to action after retiring earlier in 2025. Over 10,000 fans attended, filling more than half of the 16,500-capacity stadium, while hospitality areas sold out completely.

The event was broadcast live on TNT Sports as part of the Quilter Nations Cup coverage, with City AM present as a media partner. Team Burrow later won a second match at Gloucester’s Kingsholm Stadium, edging out a thrilling 45-43 result. Proceeds from the game totalled £110,000, benefiting the 4Ed Foundation, The Rob Burrow Discretionary Fund, and My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.

The 745 Game brought together rugby stars past and present for a high-profile charity clash. With two matches played and significant funds raised, the event continues to support MND research and care through its annual fixtures.