RFU Delays England Community Rugby Season Over Drought
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- The Rugby Football Union delayed the start of England's community rugby season from Saturday, 5 September to the week commencing Monday, 21 September, citing player welfare and pitch conditions.
- 71.3% of England is now in drought, and July was the country's driest since records began in 1836, with many grounds deemed unsuitable for safe full-contact activity.
- The RFU had recently reminded its members of existing guidance on managing rugby pitches in drought conditions and carrying out risk assessments before deciding to postpone.
- No lengthy spells of rain are currently forecast before the original 5 September start date, according to the RFU.
- RFU president Sir Bill Beaumont acknowledged the decision would be "disappointing" for clubs, schools, colleges, players, volunteers, and fans, while saying an early call provided greater certainty for preparation.
Why it matters: Clubs, schools, and colleges lose roughly two weeks of scheduled play, with the RFU acting early to give the grassroots game planning certainty. But with 71.3% of England in drought and no significant rain forecast, the 21 September restart carries no guarantee that pitches will be fit for full-contact rugby by then either.
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