EFL fixture called off for second time in 2026 – nearly three weeks before scheduled clash

Doncaster Rovers have expressed their frustration in having their League One fixture against Luton Town postponed for the second time in 2026.

The South Yorkshire club confirmed on Friday that the EFL have moved the clash from its scheduled date of February 24, despite their ‘strong objections’.

It comes after Luton were reinstated into the Vertu Trophy following the expulsion of Swindon Town for fielding two ineligible players in their round of 16 tie against the Hatters.

Therefore, Luton will now face Plymouth Argyle in the quarter-finals on February 24.

Rovers confirmed that they have requested the Luton game to be played on March 24 despite it falling within the international break.

A Doncaster club statement read: “Despite our strong objections, the EFL has agreed with the two clubs to stage the tie on February 24, leading to the postponement of our Sky Bet League One fixture.

“We have informed the EFL of our intent to rearrange the game for March 24 with a commitment to play the game despite it falling during an international break.

“The date of the fixture will be confirmed in due course.”

The match against Luton was originally set to be played on January 4, but was postponed due to a frozen pitch at the Eco-Power Stadium.

Doncaster have assured fans that tickets for both postponed dates will remain valid for the rearranged date.

Swindon’s hefty punishment

Swindon were informed of their punishment on Wednesday which included a fine of £40,000 with half of that amount being suspended.

Should the Robins repeat the offense before the end of the 2026/27 season then they will be required to front up the additional £20,000.

Will Cooper

Swindon were reprimanded for fielding Oliver Clarke despite him serving a seven-game suspension from the FA.

They were also punished for introducing Aaron Drinan for the second half of the tie despite him not being named on the official team sheet.

The Wiltshire club hit back at the ruling deeming the outcome as unfair while Swindon boss Ian Holloway described his sides expulsion as ‘absolutely disgusting’.

A club statement read: “Swindon Town Football Club is deeply disappointed by the Independent Disciplinary Commission’s decision to remove the club from this season’s Vertu Trophy,” the Swindon statement read.

“We strongly believe this outcome is unfair and do not agree with the findings.

“That said, we respect the disciplinary process and the authority of the commission.

Rex

“Right now, our focus has to be on moving forward together as a football club.

“We will take time to reflect, learn from what has happened, and make sure we continue to meet the highest standards in everything we do.

“Above all, our priority remains with our players, staff, and supporters.

“We will keep backing them fully as we push on and compete with everything we have in our remaining fixtures this season.”