Premiership Rugby insists it's business as usual despite coronavirus

Premiership Rugby are pressing ahead as planned with Sunday’s Premiership Rugby Cup final between Sale Sharks and Harlequins in Manchester – and with its current Gallagher Premiership schedule.

Sports fixtures around the world have been called off due to the outbreak of the coronavirus. However, despite the postponement of three Guinness Six Nations matches and the indefinite suspension of the Guinness PRO14, English rugby authorities have insisted it is business as usual. 

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In a statement released shortly after English football authorities decided to suspend all fixtures in its sport until at least April 3, Premiership Rugby stated: “The welfare of our fans, players and staff is our first concern and we are working in close contact with DCMS, Public Health England and World Health Organisation, following all the experts’ advice. 

“Based on this advice, and in consultation with the teams, we have decided to run the Premiership Rugby Cup this Sunday at the AJ Bell Stadium, as planned.

“We will continue to work closely with government on a schedule for the remainder of the season, should the guidance on sporting events change.

“We will keep updating our plans with new information as it is released, and ensure our clubs and fans are updated with developments as soon as they happen.”

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