ENGLISH rugby’s Professional Game Board announced a new Covid-19 strategy on Monday that aims to encourage players and management in the elite domestic game to get fully vaccinated.

The policy allows clubs in the Gallagher Premiership, Championship and women’s Allianz Premier 15s to relax some elements of current Covid-19 minimum operating standards once a vaccination rate of 85 per cent or more has been reached in both the player and staff groups.

The changes only currently apply in English domestic rugby.

Match-day changes for those clubs meeting the vaccination rate include social distancing for players and support staff within the so-called red zone, which includes changing rooms, no longer being required, and masks being recommended but no longer compulsory for players and support staff indoors and outdoors.

Medical staff will continue to wear PPE and masks must still be worn by players in the medical room.

PGB chairman Chris Booy said: “The health and safety of everyone involved in the elite game is our priority and we know it is vital we ensure the vast majority of players and management are fully vaccinated as soon as possible.”