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Coldest international rugby union grounds in Europe
By Jack Tunney
Rugby union is a sport that is played in many different parts of the world, in a variety of different climates. From the scorching heat of the Australian outback to the freezing cold of the Scottish highlands, rugby players are used to adapting to different conditions in order to perform at their best.
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One of the most challenging environments for rugby players is undoubtedly the coldest grounds. Playing rugby in freezing temperatures presents a number of unique challenges, from slippery pitches to numb fingers and toes. Take a look at some of the coldest grounds in rugby union, and what makes them so challenging for players:
Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh, Scotland
Murrayfield Stadium is the home of Scottish rugby, and it’s no secret that the weather in Scotland can be pretty unforgiving, especially in the winter months. The stadium is known for its icy winds and freezing temperatures, which can make it a real challenge for players to perform at their best. In fact, the record low temperature at Murrayfield is a bone-chilling -14°C, which is enough to make anyone want to stay indoors.
Principality Stadium, Cardiff, Wales
Wales is another country that is known for its tough climate, and the Principality Stadium in Cardiff is no exception. The stadium is known for its retractable roof, which can be closed in the event of bad weather, but when it’s open, players are at the mercy of the elements. The record low temperature at the stadium is -7°C, which may not be as cold as some other grounds, but it’s still pretty chilly.
Twickenham Stadium, London, England
Twickenham Stadium is the home of English rugby, and it’s another ground that can get pretty cold in the winter months. The stadium is located in south-west London, which is generally milder than the rest of the country, but it can still get pretty nippy on a winter’s day. The record low temperature at Twickenham is -5°C, which is cold enough to make even the toughest rugby player shiver.
Stade de France, Paris, France
Moving across the channel to France, the Stade de France in Paris is another stadium that can get pretty cold in the winter months. The stadium is known for its retractable roof, which can be closed in the event of bad weather, but when it’s open, players are exposed to the elements. The record low temperature at the stadium is -6°C, which is pretty chilly by anyone’s standards.
Playing rugby in cold conditions is never easy, but these four stadiums are some of the toughest environments in the sport. From icy winds to frozen pitches, players have to be at their best to perform in these conditions, and they need to be well-prepared both physically and mentally. But for those who can tough it out, playing rugby in the cold can be one of the most rewarding experiences in the sport…especially when the showers are working properly after the match.
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