Start of 2022/23 season – Ground Conditions

Given the hot and dry weather conditions in some parts of the country, the RFU recognises that there is understandable concern around the state of pitches, associated player safety and readiness for the start of the competitive season. The situation is undoubtedly varied across country with some regions more serious than others. Given the desire to get players back and matches on in a safe environment as the sport rebounds from COVID, but with the weather set to remain hot and dry in some areas, the RFU in conjunction with the relevant Organising Committees (adult female/adult male/age grade) will assess the situation at regular intervals over the next 7-10 days and where necessary provide further updates to the game during this period.

As it stands, there is no plan to postpone scheduled league/cup fixtures broadly across regions from the first week of the season, and it is a club’s (or school’s, college’s, university’s) choice whether to deliver rugby activity at the present time, in line with current regulations. Consideration as always should be given to ground conditions and player readiness. Further communication and guidance will be issued next week.

11 Aug 22