Rugby Union to run comp for premier grade only

PORT Moresby’s Capital Rugby Union (CRU) has set Sept 12-13 as the tentative start date for its 10-week season with its premier grade confirmed as the only division to compete.
CRU coordinator Paul Joseph told The National that all eight clubs needed to submit their 40-men squads before next Wednesday.
“We’ve come up with 10 weeks of 15s rugby and it’s only going to be the premier grade for the season,” he said.
“We’ve shelved all the other divisions for now.
“But we’re looking to have some sevens rugby for the juniors and women later in the season when the clubs have settled.
“We have advised clubs to send their list of 40 players for their premier teams with basic details of each member for contact tracing.
“With the premier grade, we will have our eight clubs playing with two matches for Saturday and Sunday.
“This way, it will allow us space to practise and abide by the Covid-19 guidelines.”
Joseph said another main requirement from World Rugby and Papua New Guinea Rugby Union was for coaches to complete a Covid-19 coaching course prior to the season.
“All coaches have been advised to access the World Rugby website and complete an online coaching course,” he said.
“They must have proof of a certificate so they can be allowed on the sidelines with their teams.
“It is important that coaches get themselves accredited so that they know how to manage their teams in the ‘new normal’ of rugby.”
The eight clubs for this season are University, Brothers, Wanderers, Harlequins, Juggernauts, Nova, Valley Hunters and Crusaders.