LANCASHIRE CUP COMPETITIONS TO COMMENCE

Sat 22 Aug 2026 17:01

MEN'S CUP COMPETITIONS

After detailed discussions with the RFU we have confirmation that the delayed start of the season covers RFU League Competitions only.  It does NOT cover local CB (County) Competitions. Therefore, all first round games in the Lancashire County John Burgess Cup, Brian Leigh Trophy and Plate can be played on Saturday 5th September, as scheduled. 

Additionally, the Alan Stone Lancashire Bowl first round ties can now also take place on the original scheduled date of Saturday 29th August or on Saturday 5th September, subject to agreement with both clubs. 

Cup Regulations can be found on the link.

Clubs are advised to note the following:

1. The draw for the next round of the Lancashire Cup Competitions will take place on the evening of Saturday 5th September by the County Cup Committee.

2. If both clubs drawn together in the next round agree, the game can take place on Saturday 12th September or Saturday 19th September.  The second round Cup matches MUST be completed by Saturday 19th September to ensure the maximum number of available dates later in the season.

3. The delayed RFU League programme will commence on Saturday 26th September and the revised dates for the postponed league fixtures are now published on GMS.   

4. All games going ahead must satisfy the pitch assessment process laid out in the published RFU guidance.

RFU COMPETITION GUIDANCE

Clubs, Schools, Colleges and Universities are responsible for determining whether their pitches are playable and players are match ready. RFU Competitions have been delayed and will start later in September, however, if local conditions allow, other matches can go ahead to help prepare for the competitive season. This is subject to a risk assessment being carried out and recorded, with both teams and the match official agreeing.

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RFU PITCH GUIDANCE

Clubs have a responsibility and duty of care towards player welfare. The pre-session risk assessment should be used to ensure that al rugby training and playing activities are conducted in a safe, appropriate environment with potential hazards identified before the session begins.

RFU Risk Assessement  https://rfu.widen.net/s/npdj9lrzdx/risk-assessment-template---aug-26

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RFU COACHES GUIDANCE 

The RFU have published the following guidance to support coaches in ensuring players are building their game fitness and game readiness ahead of the new season safely and with a reduced risk of injury.  

RFU Coaches Guidance https://rfu.widen.net/s/lvm9t8qbsg/coaches-guidance

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