Biggar Rugby Club denied title and promotion as season declared null and void

Although the season had been unfinished due to coronavirus lockdown and Biggar still had two games to play, they were mathematically assured of being champions but this – and their promotion to the top flight – has been wiped out as the SRU has written off all the Scottish domestic leagues for season 2019-2020.

Past Biggar RFC president Alistair Stewart told the Carluke and Lanark Gazette: “The initial feeling just now is we are absolutely gutted.

“There is real disappointment and frustration among players and officials.

“I felt it was the likely decision the SRU would make because it was the one that would cause least angst among the clubs.

“It’s a big hit for us absolutely, there’s no doubt about it.

“I would imagine we will appeal this decision but I can’t think the SRU will reverse this decision in any way.

“The fact we were streets ahead of everybody else and mathematically assured of promotion makes this harder to bear.

“We were clear champions, we had the championship trophy presented to us and there are rules and regulations going with that which get us promotion. We will be putting in a letter of appeal against this decision as soon as we can.

“It would need to be done quickly rather than delay it I think.

Despite the disappointment of not getting promoted to the Premiership, Alistair said he was hopeful of retaining the vast majority of Biggar’s squad for next season.

He added: “The playing convenor spoke to a good number of players prior to all this news coming out since the season was in lockdown.

“And the bulk of guys said they would certainly stay on and remain with the club.

“Whether or not they will change their mind I don’t know.”

Although competition in Division 1 is likely to be even more fierce next season, Alistair reckons Biggar should be challenging for the title once again.