LEAGUE and cup rugby, except for the Premiership, has been ended early for the 2019/20 season amid the COVID-19 crisis.

England's RFU made the announcement earlier today, although there is still uncertainty surrounding the instigation of promotion and relegation.

Any decision on promotion will affect Dorchester, who have been the class of the Wadworth Dorset & Wilts One South division this season.

Martin Oxland's side have accrued a perfect record of 17 wins from 17 matches, leading second-placed Weymouth & Portland by 11 points.

Prior to the season being declared over, Dorchester required two bonus-point victories to guarantee the title.

Bridport, leaders of Wadworth Dorset & Wilts Two South, will also await a directive from the RFU as they head their league on points difference from Wheatsheaf Cabin Crew.

England Rugby CEO Bill Sweeney said that the RFU is "working through the implications of ending the season early and have instigated a thorough process to ensure fair and balanced outcomes for the game.

"We will communicate these outcomes by the middle of April. While we would like to provide all the answers now, we need some time to get it right for the best interests of the game. 

"Rest assured we are working on this as a priority and we will continue to send weekly updates to clubs."

On a possible return to playing action, he added: "The RFU will work closely with constituent bodies to support clubs, competition organisers and the wider rugby community in preparing to re-start rugby in what is likely to be a challenging environment."