The league shifts to a Top 14-inspired model as teams gear up for the 2026-27 campaign
Category: Sports
Champ Rugby has announced a shift in its scoring system ahead of the 2026-27 season, adopting the Top 14 try bonus structure. This change means that teams will now earn try bonus points only if they score three tries or more than their opponents, a move that reflects the growing trend of high-scoring matches in the league. The new rules will take effect starting with the opening match between Nottingham and newly-promoted Blackheath on September 18, 2026.
This adjustment comes in response to last season's numerous high-scoring games, including three matches with aggregate scores exceeding 90 points. Notably, one match saw a staggering total of 108 points, with Ampthill defeating Cambridge 75-33. Such results prompted the league to reconsider its approach to bonus points, aiming to encourage more competitive play.
Under the revised scoring system, the losing bonus point structure remains unchanged. Teams that lose by seven points or fewer will still receive an extra point, ensuring that close matches are rewarded. Last season, Ampthill collected an impressive 18 try bonus points over the course of 26 league games, even though they finished in 10th place. This highlights the potential for teams to benefit from the new system, even if they do not finish at the top of the table.
Champ Rugby has long been the second tier of English rugby, providing a platform for teams to showcase their talent and compete for promotion to the Premiership. This latest change aligns the league more closely with France's Top 14, a competition known for its high-scoring encounters and exciting play. In recent years, the Premiership has also seen a rise in scoring, prompting both leagues to adapt their rules to maintain fan engagement and excitement.
The decision to implement a new try bonus point system is part of a broader strategy to improve the quality of play in the Championship. The league has faced criticism for blowout scores and uncompetitive matches, particularly when teams have little to play for in the final rounds of the season. By incentivizing teams to score more tries, the hope is that matches will become more thrilling and unpredictable.
Worcester Warriors, who are the reigning champions, will kick off their title defense against Bedford on September 19, 2026. This match is a rematch of last year's playoff final, which Worcester won 27-14 in front of a sellout crowd. As the season begins, every match will be available for streaming through Clubber TV, allowing fans to follow the action closely.
The new scoring system is expected to impact the dynamics of matches and the strategies employed by teams throughout the season. Coaches will need to adapt their game plans to focus on scoring more tries, which could lead to a more attacking style of play. This shift may also influence player recruitment, as teams look for dynamic players who can contribute to higher scoring.
Meanwhile, individual players are also gearing up for the season with aspirations of making their mark. Marcus Rhodes, who was named BUCS Super Rugby Player of the Season for 2025-26, recently signed with Coventry, one of the prominent clubs in the Championship. Rhodes, who previously played for London Irish and excelled at Durham University, is determined to make a strong impact in the league and eventually reach the Premiership.
Rhodes expressed his excitement about joining Coventry, stating, "When someone says you are going to get a crack at your dream again, it is significantly meaningful." His experience at Durham, where he made 77 starts in four years, has prepared him for the challenges of professional rugby. He aims to leverage his university experience to establish himself in the Championship and push for promotion.
With the season on the horizon, Rhodes and his Coventry teammates are focused on improving their performance after last season's semi-final exit. The team is determined to win the Championship and potentially secure a place in the Premiership, contingent upon meeting the RFU’s minimum operating standards.
As the league prepares for its opening matches, the anticipation among players and fans alike continues to build. The introduction of the new try bonus point system, along with the ambitions of teams like Coventry, promises an exciting season ahead.
Champ Rugby's commitment to enhancing the competitive nature of the league is evident in these changes. The upcoming matches will showcase the talent within the Championship and set the stage for the future of English rugby.
As teams take to the field, attention will turn to the opening match between Nottingham and Blackheath on September 18, where the new rules will first be put to the test. The season ahead holds the potential for thrilling matches and unexpected outcomes as teams adjust to the new scoring dynamics.