EPSB Statement: Postponement of National Competitions

The English Partnership for Snooker and Billards (EPSB) has today announced that the planned resumption of the 2019/20 season has now been postponed following the introduction of new Covid restrictions announced yesterday (Tuesday 22 September) by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

It had been hoped that the remaining competitions to be completed would be able to resume from 10 October, with a Finals Day to be organised in November. This was in line with previous guidance including the “rule of six” introduced earlier this month, which included an exemption for ‘indoor organised sport for over 18s’.

However, it has now been confirmed that from 24 September this exemption will no longer apply:

“Indoor organised sport for over 18s will no longer be exempt from the rule of six. There is an exemption for indoor organised team sports for disabled people (from 24 September).”

The EPSB considers that each of its planned tournaments would fall under a single and organised activity and that in all the circumstances it would not be possible to ensure that no more than six people are to mix over the course of a day.

Unfortunately, this has left no option but to confirm the postponement of next month’s planned events (ALL age groups) while the current guidance remains in place. It has been suggested by the Prime Minister that these restrictions could remain in place for a period of six months and it is therefore likely that the events will not be rescheduled during that time as the position stands.

Should the latest restrictions be relaxed sooner, however, all opportunities will be pursued to safely complete these outstanding events as soon as possible.

The EPSB team understands that this will come as a disappointment to everyone, however, remains committed to concluding these events as soon as it is possible to do so whilst adhering to government guidance.

Please note that in respect of the EPSB’s position in respect of general club competitions and the application of further restrictions, including for example the wearing of masks, further guidance will be released as soon as possible.