Jackson Burrow shines at charity rugby match
Seven-year-old Jackson Burrow stole the show yesterday at Mattioli Woods Welford Road, scoring a beautiful try in the third annual 745 Game — the cross-code charity match that brings rugby league and union legends together to raise funds for Motor Neurone Disease, reports BritPanorama.
The youngster, son of the late rugby league great Rob Burrow, was given his moment in the spotlight during the match, which saw Team Burrow — a side packed with league icons — take on Team Ed Slater, featuring some of union’s biggest names.
Jackson’s try had the crowd on their feet, capturing the emotional gravity of the day dedicated to his father’s memory. Handed the ball by a teammate, Jackson launched into a weaving run from halfway, sidestepping towering opponents as he charged towards the try line.
The seven-year-old looked absolutely thrilled as he launched himself over the whitewash to touch down, prompting joyous celebrations from his teammates, who lifted him in the air while patting him on the head.
The match featured former stars of both codes and highlighted the spirit of sportsmanship, with players from both sides offering congratulations as the entire stadium shared in the moment. The 745 Game takes its name from the shirt numbers of three rugby legends it honours — Rob Burrow (7), Ed Slater (4), and Doddie Weir (5) — and aims to raise money and awareness for MND.
Played 13-a-side with a hybrid ruleset that Burrow and Slater conceived together, the fixture combines elements from both rugby league and union, contributing to its unique character and appeal.
The event was broadcast live on TNT Sports 1, returning to Leicester’s famed venue for its third consecutive year. Viewers at home reacted synchronously, with one commenting on the quality of the display and another calling it a “joy to see”.
The MND Association also engaged with audiences online, celebrating the day’s success and sharing a heart emoji in response to the overwhelming support. Rob Burrow, who succumbed to MND in 2024 at the age of 41, left a powerful legacy, having raised over $40 million for MND charities alongside former teammate Kevin Sinfield, both of whom have received CBEs for their efforts.
As the world of rugby unites under a cause transcending sport, yesterday’s match serves as a poignant reminder of the personal stories woven into the fabric of the game, where grief, joy, and community converge on the pitch.
