Saracens star Poppy Cleall slams England Rugby’s decision to ban transgender women

Poppy Cleall has criticised England Rugby’s decision to ban transgender women from playing in the sport.

Rugby Football Union (RFU) Council and Rugby Football League (RFL) Board have both approved changes to their respective gender participation policies.

The governing bodies have recommended that only players recorded as female at birth be allowed to compete in women’s rugby.

The RFU Council voted in favour of this yesterday, with 33 in favour, 26 against and two abstaining.

Its decision has sparked criticism from women’s rugby fans and players, including Cleall, who has appeared for England more than 50 times and was named the Women’s Six Nations Player of the Tournament last year.

“From one of the most inclusive sports to one of the least in 7 votes.