Championship Round One Preview
Team news ahead of the opening round of the 2022/23 season.
Following official government guidance that there can be a respectful continuation of sport at all levels, Championship matches will go ahead this weekend. The overwhelming opinions shared so far within the game, are that teams and supporters want to come together to honour Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to be united in our grief as we express sorrow at her passing.
Rugby, at its heart, is about community and bringing people together, in good times and in sad. Rugby clubs are a source of strength and support during times of uncertainty, and we hope that by enabling games and other rugby activity to go ahead this weekend, with families and friends congregating it will help us all to unite at this time of national mourning.
We strongly encourage all those playing sport this weekend to respectfully pay tribute to Her Majesty The Queen by holding a minute’s silence ahead of all fixtures this weekend. This an opportunity for teams from different areas to join together in honouring and celebrating her life.
A New Season Begins
After a 111-day wait, The Championship returns on Friday night with a double-header that sees Cornish Pirates take on Richmond at The Mennaye at 19:30 BST, followed by Coventry vs Bedford Blues at Butts Park Arena at 19:45 BST.
Plenty has happened across the league since Ealing Trailfinders secured the double back in May, from high-profile player signings to partnerships with Premiership clubs, pre-season friendly wins against top-tier opposition, and newly promoted Caldy preparing for their inaugural campaign in the Championship.
The 2022/23 season promises to be an enthralling and unpredictable campaign, with Ampthill, Bedford Blues, Caldy, Cornish Pirates, Coventry, Doncaster Knights, Ealing Trailfinders, Hartpury, Jersey Reds, London Scottish, Nottingham and Richmond set to light up English Rugby's second tier while giving thousands of fans around the country some unforgettable match day experiences over the coming months.
Here's a look at how the teams line up this weekend.