Sadly the effects and implications are never far away!. Discussions with RFU, other CB’s and clubs show that the odds on clubs not having enough players to fulfil a fixture are very high. Regulation 22 para 6 covers this with Para 7 outlining who has jurisdiction if a fixture cannot be fulfilled. Given the numbers of cancelled warm up fixtures around the county and the long layoff, the temptation to play a match with a weakened team or have players out of position to fulfil a fixture are understandably high. However the guidance from RFU and CRFU is that that regardless of the circumstances, player welfare MUST NOT be prejudiced.
The current guidelines remain in force for Covid and clubs should actively enforce the self – isolation guidelines and mandated obligations should any of their players/personnel either contract Covid or receive notification via the app. Sanitisation and cleaning guidelines for kit and equipment remain. It is in the interests of all Cornish clubs to go beyond mere compliance in their Covid practices, especially given the current high levels of Covid among the age group that comprise the majority of our players. For example, and in order to protect individuals whilst still seeking to fulfil the fixture, one clubs pragmatic approach has resulted them initiating the following process for its players after a limited close contact. This process is endorsed by CRFU RugbySafe and has also been recognised as an example of good practice by other counties.
- All players who attend training on both nights should be advised to take a Lateral Flow Test as soon as reasonably practical and then follow the COVID protocol associated with their result.
- Additionally, all players who are selected to play on Saturday must provide evidence as to a clear LFT on Saturday on arrival at the Club.
- Opposition teams are to be made aware of the process and advised of the team Covid status on the day of the match
If there are any questions or concerns regarding COVID or any other matter please don’t hesitate to contact rugbysafe@crfu.co.uk
