England’s Rugby Football Union has been forced to delay the start of the community rugby seasons due to the ongoing dry weather.
More than three-quarters of England is now in drought after a prolonged period without significant rainfall, creating significant challenges for recreational sport.
And the RFU has now taken the decision that competitive fixtures will not commence until after Monday 21 September.
“We know this decision will be disappointing for the clubs, schools and colleges, players, volunteers and fans looking forward to the start of the season, and we do not underestimate the impact it will have across the game,” Bill Beaumont, the RFU’s president, said.
“This has been a carefully considered decision. After listening to views from across the community game and weighing up the options available to us, we believe that delaying the start of the competitive season nationwide is the right course of action. While we recognise that not everyone will agree with this decision, making it now provides greater certainty for clubs, schools and colleges as they prepare for the months ahead.”
The decision means that no competitive games will take place in RFU’s men’s leagues below National League 1 and 2 level, and in the women’s game below Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) level.
The new Prem Rugby season is not due to begin until Friday 25 September,