Decision taken by the IRFU Rugby Committee that the 2019-20 season should come to an end and conclude as from today

On Thursday 12th March the IRFU announced the suspension of all rugby until the 29th March. It is clear that the unprecedented situation that we find ourselves in, will see this date extended with no clear timeline when rugby can resume. The IRFU are mindful that decisions that affect all clubs are communicated early to allow clubs to plan for the weeks and months ahead.

Following a conference call today of the IRFU Rugby Committee, it has been decided that the current season 2019-20 should come to an end and conclude as from today.

This decision applies to all competitions in all domestic rugby.

With so much uncertainty around a possible resumption, it was felt this is the most rational and logical approach to take. As a result, and after discussing the many different permutations and issues that arise around the current standings of clubs in the AIL, it was decided that the fairest way to approach the question of what do we do with the leagues as they currently stand, is to retain all clubs in the positions they are.

This means there will be no promotion or relegation in the Mens or Womens AIL for season 2019-20.

• All teams will remain in the leagues they are currently in for next season 2020-21
• There will be no Round Robin for Junior clubs
• There will be no Fraser McMullen U20 Cup
• There will be no Junior Interpros
• There will be no Bateman Cup final
• There will be no Womens AIL Cup final

We will not be seeking to play any games over the summer, nor to play catch up games in August/September. The current season will come to an end and a new season will commence as normal.

Should a Province have already completed their leagues or cups with the same number of games played prior to today’s date, then clubs may be promoted or relegated as these leagues are already determined. In all other cases, teams will remain as they were. For any cup competition where the finalists are known, the Cup is to be shared.

The IRFU have spoken to the other three Home Unions and this approach is a view that is shared amongst all four Unions.

We recognise that some teams that have strived hard and played well to finish at or near the top of their respective leagues will be disappointed but the underlying principle is that this is the fairest way to approach all rugby at this time.