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 at level 3 and below.
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.
