Clifton Lane pitch taking a turn as Rotherham Titans gear up for Champ Rugby
THE pitch at Clifton Lane, home of Rotherham Titans, is being turned 90 degrees to meet new regulations in a historic move.
World Rugby, Law Number 1, lays down certain requirements regarding the size of playing surfaces and technical areas, necessitating the biggest change in a century of rugby at the old ground.
The turning of the pitch means the cricket pavilion will be at one end and “The Shed” at the other, with the clubhouse straddling one touchline.
“It has been done with great sadness. I don’t particularly want to do it,” said Titans’ CEO Martin Jenkinson.
"I have known that ground as it is for a long time and it has assisted us in developing a style of rugby that has suited us.”
Mr Jenkinson said the landlords, Rotherham Athletic Company, had been helpful and accommodating over the changes, which are taking place ahead of the new league season in September.
Cricket is no longer played at Clifton Lane, although Rotherham Town CC does still exist in name.
Titans have been promoted to the “Champ” for the first time since 2018.
Even though promotion through to the Premiership has been scrapped from next season, the RFU wants to create a stronger and more financially stable second tier with better club facilities.
To that end new Essential Minimum Standards ask for a ground capacity of 2,000, including a minimum of 200 seats and at least 500 covered spectator places, either sitting or standing.
Media and medical facilities also have to be improved, among other things.
A Titans spokesman added: “This summer we will get as much done as we can and then it will continue to get Clifton Lane where it needs to be.”
In the meantime, work continues apace to shape a squad to help Titans compete at the higher level.
Experienced centre Travis Gordon and half-back JB Bruzulier have re-signed for next season and more retentions and new signings will be announced in the coming weeks.