Transgender women banned from playing contact rugby in the female category

It aligns with the already published stance of other governing bodies such as the Irish Rugby Football Union and the Rugby Football Union.

In a statement released by the WRU it outlines what the new policy means for those in the sport. It states: 'Contact rugby for players in the female category will be limited to those whose sex was recorded as female at birth. This is a departure from the previous policy which allowed for participation in the women’s game for transgender women depending on the outcome of a thorough medical process including testosterone tests prior to registration to play.'

It continues: 'Recent peer reviewed research provides evidence that there are physical differences between those whose sex was assigned as male and those as female at birth, and advantages in strength, stamina and physique brought about by male puberty are significant and retained even after testosterone suppression.

'The WRU has also committed to an ongoing review of the policy as new evidence, research and insights become available.

'With the provision of non-contact formats of the game, coaching, refereeing and a wide range of volunteering opportunities, the WRU firmly believes there is a place for everyone in Welsh rugby and works hard and proactively on the vitally important area of inclusion throughout the game in Wales.

There are currently no registered transgender players in the Welsh women’s game, but anyone affected by the latest change in policy is encouraged to contact integrity@wru.wales