The RFU has confirmed the end of the 2019/20 season for all league, cup and county competitions, with the exception of the Gallagher Premiership.
England’s governing body has decided to cut the current campaign short in light of the ongoing global coronavirus pandemic, applying the ruling to all competitions at the levels below the Premiership.
That means the Championship campaign ends with seven rounds still to play and with table-toppers Newcastle Falcons having yet to secure promotion, albeit they have a 100 per cent record and are 18 points clear of second-placed Ealing.
However, with a ruling still to be made, Newcastle look set to reclaim their place in the Premiership with Saracens’ relegation from the top flight confirm after their persistent breaches of salary caps rules.
The RFU said an official decision on that subject and many others would be made in mid-April as they consider their options.
An RFU statement read: “We are working through the implications of ending the season early and have instigated a thorough process to ensure fair and balanced outcomes for the game. We will communicate these outcomes by the middle of April.
“While we would like to provide all the answers now, we need some time to get it right for the best interests of the game. Rest assured we are working on this as a priority and we will continue to send weekly updates to clubs.”
The RFU added that the Gallagher Premiership were in discussions over the next steps for that competition with England’s top flight having postponed all activity until April 14.
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