All clear for contact play given to grassroots rugby
The RFU has welcomed the news that the Government has given the green light for 15-a-side contact rugby union to return at grassroots level, subject to adaptations.
This comes after extensive research and consultations with Government into mitigating the risks of close contact.
By using law variations, this will limit the risk of prolonged face-toface contact, allowing the community game to resume (everything below the Greene King IPA Championship and Allianz Premier 15s).
Clubs have been able to begin adapted training since last week in preparation for local friendly fixtures recommencing from Friday 18 December, when the following law variations will come into effect:
There will be no scrums or mauls in the game.
Instead of a scrum, the game will begin with a free kick. This free kick cannot be taken quickly.
A minimum of five and a maximum of seven players from each team are required to form a lineout.
A team awarded a penalty or free kick will no longer be able to choose a scrum option.
A team awarded a penalty or free kick at a lineout can instead choose another lineout at the same mark.
These law variations will be reviewed as the season progresses and as restrictions change.
RFU Rugby Development Director Steve Grainger said: “We are delighted that our submission has been approved to return to a format of 15 a-side rugby and we thank Government for working with us to find a solution that enables the safe return of the community game.
“In recent months, we have received growing support from clubs and players in favour of adaptations, with law variations preferable to the option of no rugby at all.
“This is wonderful news for community clubs, their volunteers, players and supporters around the country, who can now look forward to playing contact rugby for the first time since March.
“We now need to be as safe as we possibly can be and comply with all off-field social distancing and Covid-secure guidance to ensure we can continue our phased return to full contact rugby when it is safe to do so.”
England head coach Eddie Jones added: “I know how much work has gone into getting international rugby back. Having community rugby back is the next step in getting the game up and running and I am pleased for everyone involved in the community game, which has gone through a very tough time.
“They can now get excited about having rugby back in their lives.”
Further guidance on travel within/between tiers will be issued following publication of Government guidance. There is no obligation for players and clubs to play 15-a-side adaptations. Clubs will still be able to play Ready4rugby matches up until and beyond 18 December. The Department for Education (DFE) has confirmed schools/colleges can return to playing sport in line with approved National Governing Body action plans.