England Rugby Season Delayed

The Rugby Football Union has delayed the start of England's community rugby season due to concerns about player welfare and pitch conditions caused by drought. The original start date was scheduled for Saturday, 5 September, but the new start date is now the week commencing Monday, 21 September.

The decision comes as 71.3% of England is now in drought, with the country recording its driest July since records began in 1836. Many grounds are deemed unsuitable for safe full-contact activity due to the drought conditions, prompting the RFU to remind its members of existing guidance on managing rugby pitches in drought conditions and carrying out risk assessments.

RFU president Sir Bill Beaumont stated that player welfare and readiness were central to the decision to postpone the season. The RFU gathered feedback from representatives across different regions and discussed the options before making the decision to push the start back.

## Why it matters The postponement of the community rugby season will have a significant impact on clubs, schools, and colleges, as well as players, volunteers, and fans. The decision provides greater certainty for clubs and schools as they prepare for the months ahead, but it will also be disappointing for those looking forward to the start of the season. The RFU's priority on player welfare and readiness reflects the importance of ensuring that players can compete safely and fairly.

The drought conditions affecting much of England have raised concerns about the safety of rugby pitches, and the RFU's decision to postpone the season is a precautionary measure to mitigate the risks of injury. With no lengthy spells of rain forecast before the original start date, the RFU has taken a proactive approach to ensure that the season can begin on a fair and consistent footing across the country.

## What happens next The community rugby season will now start on the week commencing Monday, 21 September, giving clubs and schools more time to prepare and for the drought conditions to potentially improve. The RFU will continue to monitor the situation and provide guidance to its members on managing rugby pitches in drought conditions.