RFC get green light to play on

Blairgowrie RFC have been given the green light to return to competitive action later in the year.

Governing body Scottish Rugby recently agreed the resumption of a national competitive league structure for the upcoming 2021/22 season following a consultation with clubs and schools across the country.

Supported by the Scottish Rugby board, its council and championship committee, management behind the sport contacted clubs in the spring to gather feedback on two season structure proposals to kick-off rugby again once Scottish Government lockdown restrictions have eased sufficiently.

The first option included a national league structure, with promotion and relegation, while the second proposal was based around a regional league structure, with no promotion or relegation.

A total of 252 responses were returned, with 63 per cent of clubs and schools opting for‘Option A’as their preference.

And, as a result, a recommendation has been made to resume the men’s and women’s Tennent’s Leagues – along with the youth and school conference divisions – in September.

Further details agreed included the possibility of fixture rescheduling as a consequence of any future restrictions imposed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

A spokesperson explained that, providing at least 65 per cent of all league fixtures have been fulfilled once play gets back under way, promotion and relegation within the leagues will be applied.

In the event that the total number of all completed league fixtures is less than 65 per cent, the season will be concluded and there will be no promotion or relegation.

Details for cup competitions will not be confirmed until later into the season when it’s hoped Scottish Rugby can be confident that the 65 per cent target will be reached.

Scottish Rugby has said a fixture list is expected to be issued this week.