Rugby has long been associated with mud as 30 men repeatedly smash each other to inch forward on rain-soaked pitches.
But London club Saracens are spearheading a revolution that could see the end of mucky playing surfaces forever.
Chief executive Ed Griffiths said today the £500,000 artificial pitch at the new Allianz Park stadium in Barnet could have worldwide implications. He said: “Rather than describing us as guinea pigs for the use of an artificial pitch, I prefer ‘pioneers’.
When you consider that it costs £120,000 a year to look after a grass surface and just £15,000 to ensure an artificial pitch is in great condition, you can see why other clubs and provinces are interested in our move.”
Mr Griffiths said some of his players had “reservations” but believed the risk was worth taking. He said: “In five years I believe one of two scenarios will have unfolded; either artificial pitches will be used around the world or we’ll be back to using grass. Of course, there is a risk in being first but at Saracens we want to be first and want to be taking the club forward.”
The move could help develop a more expansive game — rather than the classic, attritional version developed in the mud of a northern winter — as the pitches would be closer in style to those of the southern hemisphere.
Mr Griffiths has spoken to rugby chiefs in South Africa about using artificial pitches while other Premiership outfits have expressed an interest in following suit — if it is a success. Saracens players will start training on the new “3G” turf next month. The first home game will be next February.
