THE RUGBY Football Union has suspended all rugby activity in England, at both professional and community level.

Rugby activity includes club training, league and cup matches plus rugby education courses from March 17 until April 14 subject to continued review.

An RFU statement read: “The decision has been taken following government advice in the interests of players, coaches, referees, volunteers, supporters and the wider rugby union community.

“Where possible, players at all levels are encouraged to maintain their own personal fitness and keep active during this time, while following government guidelines about safe distance and safe exercise environments.”

A Premiership Rugby statement said: “We are sorry to tell our fans that we will be postponing our season for five weeks, in line with today’s advice of Prime Minister Boris Johnson, which confirmed that the Government would no longer support mass gatherings.”