SRU are desperate to avoid 1872 Cup call-off after beautiful game dealt blow by Sturgeon

BY RODDY DUNCAN when the Pro-14 will restart with a derby clash between Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh.

Now oval-ball chiefs have confirmed our story, as they attempt to pave the way for bigger crowds.

The SRU is developing a “robust plan” for the game which will be both clubs’ first game back in the Guinness PRO14 since play was suspended in March.

A statement read: “We are confident we can deliver this event to an excellent standard and ensure the safety of our players, employees and spectators. And we look forward to presenting the final plan to Government for approval next week.

“Throughout this pandemic we have built an excellent working relationship with the Scottish Government and have since been in almost daily dialogue with Government representatives.”

First Minister Sturgeon announced this week that physical-distancing restrictions could soon be relaxed from two metres to one for some sectors including public transport, retail and hospitality if protocols are implemented.

The SRU added: “Individual sectors will need to demonstrate what public health mitigations would be used to justify a reduction from 2m. Therefore, we plan to include the case for 1m-plus physical distancing in our submission to the Government next week advocating Murrayfield as a test venue.

“A reduction in physical distancing could potentially allow us to welcome more spectators into the stadium and help drive financial recovery.

“We’re to submit our operational proposal for the 1872 match on August 22 next week, with a clear understanding that the date may change depending on government assessment.

“The success of this event would demonstrate our capabilities to the Government proving we can safely and responsibly host events and hence potentially open up further opportunities down the line.”

The Scottish Government has consistently played down the prospect of sports crowds returning before October.