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The Rugby Players' Association has rejected Premiership Rugby's plans to lengthen the domestic season by a further month. PRL has outlined plans for an expanded season which would see the final played in June, rather than May. This came after World Rugby's announcement over the new global calendar which comes into play from the 2019-20 season. But the RPA is concerned over the proposed season outline as they believe it would be detrimental to player welfare. PRL presented its plans for the new-look domestic campaign to the RPA board on May 10, and the players' association has now spoken out against the proposals, having "unanimously rejected" them. "Extending an already arduous season from nine months to 10 has serious implications for players, given the potential increase to the game, training and psychological loads they face," the RPA statement read. "The physical and mental strain placed on participants of professional contact sport cannot be underestimated. "We believe the reduction of the domestic off-season from three to two months will have a seriously detrimental effect on player welfare unless substantial guaranteed safeguards are introduced. The RPA fought hard for the inclusion of a mandatory 5-week off-season break in the standard Premiership contract, but players also require an extensive pre-season period to sufficiently prepare themselves for the physical demands of the season. A significant off-season period is essential to provide physical and, crucially, mental respite for our members. "Perhaps most worryingly is the incredible strain these proposals would place on international players. If the Premiership season retains its current start date, the addition of a July tour schedule will lead to an 11-month season for these players. This cannot be avoided unless these players start their domestic season later, which brings into question the need for the season extension." Under PRL's plans, there would be no Premiership matches played while international games are taking place, with that void filled by a new-look Anglo-Welsh Cup. RPA says the decision to stop top flight matches during the international windows is "desirable" but says PRL's proposals are not viable.
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