PONTYPOOL RFC have assured supporters that they are in a "stable position" despite there being no prospect of an imminent return to action, writes Chris Kirwan.
Club rugby has been shut down since March because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The cancellation of the leagues denied Pooler and Bargoed the chance to push for promotion from the Championship, with the former having earned a five-point advantage with 10 games left to play.
The delayed start to 2020/21 looks likely to further frustrate the duo in their bid for the Premiership.
"Unfortunately, there is little change in terms of a prospective return to rugby," wrote chief executive Ben Jeffreys in an update for fans on the club website.
"We haven't received anything by way of a meaningful update from the Welsh Rugby Union for some time and sadly, we remain of the opinion that we will not be getting back to business any time soon.
"Though this is frustrating for us all, we wholeheartedly agree that it would not be sensible to resume operations whilst COVID-19 continues to expand exponentially across the country.
"Whilst we miss rugby and all the fun and games this brings, it's far more important to us that everyone connected to the club remains healthy.
"It's going to be a long winter and we have to be realistic about what our priorities should be. For now, rugby is not top of the agenda.
"Equally, I'm fully aware of the mental health impacts COVID-19 is having on so many of us, myself included. It's so important that we stay connected as a community and support each other wherever possible."
Clubs are currently limited to skills and fitness-based activities with a touch or tag element while following strict coronavirus protocols.
The Welsh Rugby Union are exploring how the game "may develop over coming months, dependent on the public health situation".
Pontypool are planning a live Q&A on their Facebook page to update supporters on how they are coping with the pandemic.
"Until then, I'd just like to reiterate that Pontypool RFC is in a stable position and you have nothing to worry about in terms of the club's future prospects," said Jeffreys.
"We have a solid team in place and we are well equipped to face the challenging times ahead."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel