IRFU declares end of Ireland's domestic season

The Ireland Rugby Football Union has confirmed that the domestic season of 2019/20 will conclude with immediate effect due to the coronavirus pandemic.

With restrictions to public gatherings and travel in and around the country, the domestic season was initially suspended following government directives but now has officially ended as the Irish board wants to give the club time to recover and plan for the next season.

The IRFU also announced that the finalists will share the titles and there will not be any promotion or relegation.

"Irish Rugby's 2019/20 domestic season is to conclude with immediate effect due to ongoing concerns over coronavirus.

"Government action in combatting the virus looks set to continue beyond March 29th. Irish Rugby wants to play its part while giving clubs the chance to put plans in place for the 2020/21 season.

"The directive applies to all incomplete national and provincial competitions."

IRFU director of rugby Development Colin McEntee said the decision to conclude the domestic season was taken after considering all options.

"The decision to end the domestic rugby season for 2019/2020 season has not been made lightly. All options were discussed and the IRFU is satisfied it has arrived at the only equitable solution.

"These are challenging times for us all and we know clubs will be impacted by this directive, but we will look back at this season as one where we put the physical welfare of our rugby community above all else.

"Clubs are now in a position to make plans for the 2020/21 season. We look forward to marking the 30th anniversary of the All-Ireland League."