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Rochdale Hornets star sidelined long-term following ‘serious accident at work’ Ben Metcalfe (ball in hand) in action for Rochdale Hornets in 2026 - Image credit: Rochdale Hornets Rochdale Hornets star Ben Metcalfe has been ruled out for the remainder of the season and beyond after suffering a serious accident at work which hospitalised him for several days. Local lad Metcalfe, a product of community club Rochdale Mayfield’s system, rejoined the Hornets for a second stint ahead of the 2026 campaign having made his League 1 debut for them aged just 16 back in 2022. The young forward combines his playing duties for the Championship outfit alongside his work as a cladding installer, and was left hospitalised in Coventry after an accident at work. That accident has left him with what the club describe as a ‘serious arm injury. Rochdale Hornets star Ben Metcalfe sidelined long-term following ‘serious accident at work’ A utility in the pack, Metcalfe played two games for Rochdale in the third tier in 2022, and has featured 14 times across all competitions this term following his return. The second of those 14 appearances in 2026 saw him score his first, and to date only, try for the Hornets: getting over the whitewash in a Challenge Cup Second Round victory against community club Waterhead Warriors. Having represented Rochdale Mayfield in-between his two stints with the Hornets, Metcalfe is set to be supported by the Championship club as he works his way back to fitness following the accident suffered while at work. The Hornets’ press release states that they ‘look forward to welcoming him back on the field when he is able.’ Gary Thornton’s side sit 15th on the Championship ladder, and look highly unlikely to be involved in this season’s Championship play-offs, which will involve the division’s top ten sides. Accordingly, they have just five games of the regular season remaining to play out, starting this weekend as they host Cumbrian outfit Whitehaven at the Crown Oil Arena. Three consecutive away trips follow – to Workington Town, Dewsbury Rams and Hunslet – before the Hornets conclude their campaign back on home soil against local foes Oldham on August 30.