Premiership considers introducing away fan sections

Defending champions Northampton have sold in excess of 15,000 tickets for their first two home games of the season and Premiership bosses are considering ways to improve the atmosphere still further

The Premiership is considering bringing in sections purely for away fans to heighten the atmosphere at top-flight matches.

Traditionally crowds have been unsegregated and, while mixing with opposition fans is one of rugby's attractions, it is thought that dedicated, concentrated away areas may encourage more noise.

"There are a number of clubs that are very keen to engage on that," said Premiership Rugby's chief growth officer Rob Calder.

"We've talked to them about identifying areas and getting the pricing, and communication right."

The proposal has been born out league-wide discussions on improving fan experience.

While it is not the norm, large groups of away fans have been seated together on occasion in the past.

Covid restrictions meant that Harlequins' travelling support was kept separate from home fans as they cheered their team to a famous comeback win over Bristol in the 2021 play-off semi-final at Ashton Gate.

Harlequins players salute their fans high in the Ashton Gate stands after an astonishing 43-36 extra-time victory over Bristol in 2021

Former England head coach Sir Clive Woodward told the Daily Mail that he supported the plans.

"I can only see positives by having designated sections for away rugby fans in matches," he said.

"It will certainly add to the atmosphere and that, ultimately, is what it’s all about. It helps sell the product and grow rugby’s appeal."

This weekend's round of top-flight matches is intended to stoke traditional rivalries and atmosphere with teams handed local opposition.

Among the derbies taking place are Leicester v Northampton, Gloucester v Bath and Harlequins v Saracens.