Community rugby to remain at Stage D2
Despite the Rugby Football Union's (RFU) best efforts to secure approval, government has not given permission for scrums and mauls to be re-instated in community rugby from next week. This applies to both age grade and adult rugby, men’s and women’s, at community game level.
Community rugby remains at Stage D2 from Monday 17 May until further notice. As per Stage D2 guidance, contact training (excluding scrum and maul) and 15-a-side adapted laws matches may continue.
Whilst frustrating, the RFU understands the issue that government and Public Health England (PHE) face, with growing concerns around the Indian variant of Covid-19 in England.
Next Steps
The RFU remains in close contact with government and continues to press for progression to Stage E1, and therefore a move to full contact training, as soon as health guidance suggests this is possible.
In the meantime it is important that all; CBs, clubs, coaches, players, match officials and volunteers, adhere to all government guidance and do not return to scrums or mauls until we have been given permission to do so.
Off-field Guidance
Off-field guidance, which will come into effect on Monday 17 May, is available via this Helpdesk.
