THE Rugby Football Union decided to suspend rugby at all levels until April 14 at the earliest after the government's update on the coronavirus outbreak.

Yesterday we reported that Worcester Warriors will be out of action until at least April 24 after Premiership Rugby put the current league campaign on hold.

Warriors released a statement following the announcement on Monday evening.

It read: “Warriors can confirm that all matches under the auspices of Premiership Rugby will be postponed with immediate effect for five weeks until Monday, April 20.

“The home fixtures affected are the Gallagher Premiership matches against Gloucester and Harlequins and Cavaliers’ Premiership Rugby Shield match against Gloucester.

“The RFU have also suspended all rugby activity until April 14 which means that the Warriors Women’s home Tyrrells Premier 15s matches against Gloucester-Hartpury, Darlington Mowden Park and Loughborough Lightning will also be postponed.

“This follows the recommendation by the UK government that social gatherings of people should be avoided in an attempt to restrict the spread of coronavirus (covid-19).

“We appreciate that this will cause some inconvenience but the safety and well-being of all visitors to Sixways, our staff and players and the wider community is of paramount importance.”

As well as the professional game the RFU went a step further and pulled the plug on all rugby from Championship down to grassroots level meaning matches and all related rugby activities will not be played in this country until mid-April at the earliest.

An RFU statement read: “Rugby activity includes club training, league and cup matches plus rugby education courses from March 17 until April 14 subject to continued review.

“The decision has been taken following government advice in the interests of players, coaches, referees, volunteers, supporters and the wider rugby union community.

“Where possible, players at all levels are encouraged to maintain their own personal fitness and keep active during this time while following government guidelines about safe distance and safe exercise environments.

“The RFU will continue to review and monitor government advice and will provide detailed updates on the impact to the season in the coming weeks.”

Warriors are next scheduled to play Bristol Bears at home on Friday, April 24, in what will be their first match back from the suspension but there remains fears as to whether the season will be concluded at all.