Sky Bet Championship set for 20 June return

UK bookmakers have received another betting boost after the English Football League (EFL) confirmed the return of the Sky Bet Championship following the UK government’s decision to allow elite sporting events to return.

A provisional restart date of the weekend of 20 June has been earmarked but this is dependent on safety requirements and government guidance being met, plus clubs receiving clearance from local authorities to host home fixtures.

The move to restart the Championship follows the decision for Premier League action to return on 17 June.

The reanimated Championship season is set to conclude with the play-off final on, or around, 30 July.

EFL chair Rick Parry insisted the 20 June return date is provisional at this point in time and various dominos will need to fall before the behind-closed-doors games can be played.

Parry said: “We must stress that at this stage the date is only provisional and will only be confirmed once we have met all the requirements, as the health, safety and wellbeing of all participants, staff and supporters remains our top priority.”

Parry also explained how the EFL is working to bring the remaining fixtures to fans with stadia being closed due to social distancing requirements.

He added: “Whilst matches will unfortunately have to take place without supporters, we are working with our broadcast partners, clubs and all relevant stakeholders to broadcast the remaining 108 games.”