THE RFU have issued a firm warning to Worcester Warriors that they have until midday on Friday to make assurances that they can safely stage matches at Sixways.

That includes both the Allianz Cup match between the University of Worcester Warriors vs Harlequins on Saturday and Warriors' match with Exeter Cheifs on Sunday.

A statement on Thursday evening read: " The RFU, PRL and DCMS has been seeking assurances from the Worcester Warriors owners regarding funding and potential new ownership proposals for several weeks.

"All parties are concerned that the lack of available funds will not allow the club to hold matches safely for players and spectators, and for ongoing medical provision for players

"In particular, the local authority have not yet provided the club a General Safety Certificate to allow matches to be played at Sixways Stadium.

"All parties must balance the needs of the club to have time to raise funds to safely hold matches, with the need for certainty for supporters, players and support staff of all teams for the matches due to be held at Sixways Stadium this weekend."

And the club have been told that the punishment if they cannot provide those assurances will be suspension from all competitions.

"The RFU has written to Worcester Warriors to confirm they will be immediately suspended from all competitions, including the Gallagher Premiership, Allianz Premier 15s and Allianz Cup if assurances as to the ability to safely hold matches at Sixways Stadium are not provided by 12 noon on 16 September," the statement continued.

"This includes evidence that the local authority has issued a General Safety Certificate, and written confirmation of medical provision.

"Any suspension may be lifted once the club has more security of funding and is able to evidence its ability to hold matches safely."

Following that statement, Warriors released one of their own. 

"Worcester Warriors understand the position of the RFU, PRL and Department for Digital, Culture Media and Sport concerning the requirements for staging this weekend’s Allianz Cup and Gallagher Premiership matches at Sixways. 

"Our staff have been working hard this week to ensure that we comply with the requirements for a General Safety Certificate and we will continue to do so on Friday morning to ensure that we are fully compliant. 

"We, and the potential new owners of the club, are also aware of the serious consequences that may follow if the club is suspended from playing any competitive rugby. 

"The best solution to avoid such a sanction is to ensure that heads of terms on the agreement with the new owners are signed as quickly as possible. Work continues this evening to that end."