YORK City Knights' big pre-season friendly against Hull FC tomorrow has been called off.

The Bootham Crescent pitch - the Knights were set to make their long-awaited bow at York City's football ground - has been deemed waterlogged, having not recovered sufficiently from the recent heavy rainfall that caused the major floods across York.

The Press understands the decision was made by City's ground staff rather than a rugby league match official, but has been accepted by the Knights.

A Knights statement said: "Following inspections of the pitch unfortunately tomorrow's game has been called off.

"The pitch is still very wet, with water raising from the pitch when stood on in some areas, and is unplayable.

"This view has not been taken lightly and has been made following many inspections of the pitch and having considered the poor weather forecast for the remainder of today and for tomorrow.

"This being in addition to the concern of long-term damage likely to be caused by use of the pitch, which will adversely effect both sports moving forwards."

A decent crowd had been expected for tomorrow's match, with the Knights finally returning to a city-centre home as part of the ongoing community stadium project, and with Super League side Hull expected to bring a strong squad, potentially including big new signings from the NRL.

The Knights' other pre-season friendly at Bootham Crescent is against Castleford Tigers on Friday, January 22.

James Ford's men also go to Featherstone Rovers on Thursday, January 14, prior to the start of the season in late February.