RFU Return to rugby

Just listened to Steve Grainger speaking in today’s RFU Coronavirus update. The League restructure (if agreed by the RFU Council in November) is being deferred a year to at least 22/23. The RFU are still pressing the Government to allow a return to competitive rugby and that is unlikely to include the adaptations seen in the new Women’s season as Clubs have indicated their preference for proper rugby. He then suggested that any return is likely to focus on localised fixtures to minimise travel. Any return will depend on how Clubs can provide safe changing facilities and how safe clubhouses can be.

Good point, Marigold! As a Club Secretary I don't remember being asked that question in any depth. It may have been part of the NCA Consultation in August but I can't see it in my copy!

In my humble opinion the ladies game should be no different. The issue is Transmission of illness !!!!
So will all clubs below Premiership be required to do tests ( too expensive ) with no current revenue from very wealthy God Fathers???

I would be very interested to hear from players as to how they feel about full contact Rugby.

should we just get on with it and to hell with the consequences. or abort the season and start next Autumn and in the meantime do as Worthing , Bar open Sunday roasts, and do as much to entertain members throughout the winter. Therefore no player costs, ( I assume ) depending on contracts.

Oh so many Challenges. less sponsor exposure on match days etc. God I am now getting depressed by just writing this.


What ever happens good luck to all our wonderful clubs and please stay safe

xxxxx

Halliford wrote: The NCA confirms it is looking at a Cup competition under modified laws but finding ways to include front-row players even without scrums. https://www.ncarugby.com/announcements/nca-rugby-announce-plans-for-cup-competition/

Sounds like a chance for a lot of back-rowers to try their hand at propping

workerbee wrote: RFU have advised clubs to revert to A on the road map so no training at all.

Edited by Camquin - 06 Nov 2020 at 17:02

Well I am back after a break, Knackered computer, hacked email !!!!

Not seen this discussed anywhere, sounds like significant changes planned

Camquin wrote: You do not read the Nat1 board. http://www.rolling-maul.com/level-3-below-new-league-stucture_topic18460.html Plus some debate on the Championship board.

Personally, I would like it to remain as is at level 3 & 4.

If it really must change surely it should wait until they make decisions on the following

1) ring fencing the Premiership and size there of. - as it is unlikely to be 12 teams unless at least 1 goes under due to Covid

2) the number of teams in the new version of the Championship

marigold wrote: Raider it will stay the same for the season 21/22 but the vast majority of D of R's/Head Coaches at levels 3 and 4 indicated they wanted 26 not 30 fixtures going forward. Finally the RFU have started listening to the people closest to the players and from 22/23 the number of matches at level 3 and 4 will be reduced to 26. I do think it is highly likely the Championship will eventually-within 2 seasons- also go to 14 clubs with the vast majority being semi professional outifts.

Fair comment, I assume those DoRs/Head Coaches (and players) realise that their budgets are likely to shrink by 12/13% as well as there will be a less income as a result.