Some of Rugby League’s biggest stars are opening up about their own experiences in tackling issues around mental fitness in an exciting new initiative from Rugby League Cares.

Working with the Rugby Football League, Super League and Rugby League World Cup 2021, RL Cares is launching the Rugby League United Podcast, a series of informal online interviews with high profile current and former players.

Hosted by broadcaster George Riley, the RL United Podcast sees Rugby League personalities talk about their life experiences both within and outside the sport, and the impact on their mental wellbeing.

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic is having an impact on the lives of everyone and the podcast allows viewers to reflect on how it is affecting them through the first-hand experiences of the sport’s heroes.

Guests speak about the link between good physical and mental health, discuss the difficulties they face in maintaining a good work-life balance and chat through some of the ways they have tackled anxiety and stress in their professional and personal lives.

The Rugby League United Podcast launches on Thursday, with 45 minutes in the company of sporting giant Eorl Crabtree, the former England and Huddersfield prop.

Eorl reflects on his career and gives his views on the people who claimed he was too “soft.” He also speaks about the impact being dropped from England’s 2013 World Cup squad had on him, and urges people to use their experiences during lockdown to build resilience.

The Rugby League United Podcast will be available from 11.00am on Thursday (May 14) on the RL Cares social channels.