ENGLISH rugby's governing body has updated its guidelines for team training, in line with the latest government advice on sport and recreation.

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has said that two or more groups of six may train together, providing they are kept separate.

There should be no more than four groups per full-sized pitch, and social distancing and strict hygiene measures must be observed.

Equipment sharing, including rugby balls, should be kept to a minimum, and players should wash/sanitise their hands and equipment regularly.

Physical contact with anyone outside the same household is not permitted, and so the playing of any games remains suspended for the time being.

The RFU statement adds: "Each club should make individual decisions about when their outdoor facilities are ready to open and can be operated safely.

"Until a club believes it is safe and responsible to reopen, it should remain closed.

"Indoor facilities such as clubhouses should be kept closed, apart from toilets and throughways.

"Facilities that are open must follow relevant government guidance."

The full RFU update can be found here, and the latest government guidance on sport and recreation can be viewed here.