RFU confirms Premier 15s restart

The Allianz Premier 15s will resume this weekend with two rearranged fixtures before the tournament continues fully from Round 11 onwards on Saturday 6 February.

Rounds 11 and 12 were originally suspended at the same time as the men's season was also paused with two rounds of European fixtures cancelled.

As part of the restart, all clubs will now have access to two rounds of lateral flow testing a week. The adapted laws brought in at the beginning of the campain to mitigate against the risk of spreading coronavirus during matches will also remain.

Exeter will host Saracens and Gloucester-Hartpury face DMP Durham Sharks on Saturday 30 January. RFU head of women’s performance, Nicky Ponsford said: “We’re pleased to be returning this weekend following a break.  

“We know behaviour and following the protocols remains key to mitigating the risk of transmission but we’re pleased to be able to introduce lateral flow testing as an additional measure. 

“The intensive protocols have a specific focus on ensuring social distancing, maximising the use of masks and face coverings and minimising time spent indoors. 

“The league has been extremely competitive to date and we look forward to this weekend’s matches.”