Start of the season postponement announnced

The Rugby Football Union has confirmed that, due to the prolonged drought affecting more than 70% of the British Isles this summer, the start of the 2026/27 competitive community rugby season has been delayed until at least Saturday 26 September.

As a result, the 1st XV and 2nd XV fixtures scheduled for 12th and 19th September will be postponed and rearranged for later dates, which will be confirmed in due course.

We appreciate this will be disappointing for players, coaches, families and supporters who have been looking forward to the new season. However, the condition of pitches during this exceptionally dry period means we must place player welfare and safety at the forefront of every decision.

The Mini and Junior season WILL STILL START BACK on Sunday 6 September. Coaches will follow RFU guidance on adapted training methods during this period, ensuring sessions remain safe, appropriate and enjoyable for all age groups.

The full RFU statement about the start of the season can be read here …. https://www.englandrugby.com/follow/news-and-media/statement-start-competitive-community-rugby-season