Scarborough RUFC set for long-awaited return as RFU given green light to allow rugby's re-start

A full-sided game will be allowed to get back under way, with no scrums or mauls to minimise contact.

An RFU statement said: “The Rugby Football Union can confirm the Government has today approved our submission to a return to 15-a-side contact rugby, with some adaptations.

“This follows the Government’s announcement last week that outdoor team sport can resume from Wednesday 2 December.

“Further detail on the adaptations to the 15-a-side game and associated laws will follow.”

There will be no scrums or mauls allowed in games, where the game would re-start with a scrum, this will be replaced with a free-kick, a minimum of five and a maximum of seven players from each team are required to form a line-out.

The statement confirmed clubs are now able to resume adapted training for 15-a-side contact rugby.

“Clubs can resume friendly fixtures from Friday December 18 - this is to allow players to prepare properly and safely, having not been training over the past month,” the statement continued.

“Clubs can still play Ready4Rugby if they have matches coming up from 2 December to 18 December and beyond. There is no obligation to play adapted 15-a-side contact fixtures.

“Further Government guidance is expected on travel, changing, spectators and clubhouses.

“The RFU will work to interpret Government information and will provide a detailed briefing.”