The RFU has postponed the start of the competitive community game season due to "concerns about player welfare and pitch conditions" following this summer's heatwave in England.
The RFU has delayed the season until Monday September 21 for community clubs, schools and colleges. The decision has been made due to concerns around the safety of pitches after weeks without rain and the risks of injury to players.
The prolonged dry weather in many parts of England has left many grounds across the country unsuitable for safe full-contact activity.
Sir Bill Beaumont, president of the RFU, said: "We know this decision will be disappointing for the clubs, schools and colleges, players, volunteers and fans looking forward to the start of the season, and we do not underestimate the impact it will have across the game.
"This has been a carefully considered decision. After listening to views from across the community game and weighing up the options available to us, we believe that delaying the start of the competitive season nationwide is the right course of action.
"While we recognise that not everyone will agree with this decision, making it now provides greater certainty for clubs, schools and colleges as they prepare for the months ahead.
"On behalf of everyone at the RFU, I would like to thank all those who have shared their views and contributed to discussions in recent days.
"Player welfare and readiness have been central to our thinking throughout, alongside our desire to give the season the best possible opportunity to begin on a fair and consistent footing across the country.
"We also wanted to provide clarity as early as possible to help the volunteers, staff and organisations who work so hard behind the scenes to plan and prepare for the season."
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