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Coldest international rugby union grounds in Europe

By Jack Tunney
The Exeter Chiefs team run onto the field during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Bath Rugby and Exeter Chiefs at the Recreation Ground on March 26, 2023 in Bath, England. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

Rugby union is a sport that is played in many different parts of the world, in a variety of different climates. From the scorching heat of the Australian outback to the freezing cold of the Scottish highlands, rugby players are used to adapting to different conditions in order to perform at their best.

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One of the most challenging environments for rugby players is undoubtedly the coldest grounds. Playing rugby in freezing temperatures presents a number of unique challenges, from slippery pitches to numb fingers and toes. Take a look at some of the coldest grounds in rugby union, and what makes them so challenging for players:

Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh, Scotland

Murrayfield Stadium is the home of Scottish rugby, and it’s no secret that the weather in Scotland can be pretty unforgiving, especially in the winter months. The stadium is known for its icy winds and freezing temperatures, which can make it a real challenge for players to perform at their best. In fact, the record low temperature at Murrayfield is a bone-chilling -14°C, which is enough to make anyone want to stay indoors.

Principality Stadium, Cardiff, Wales

Scott Baldwin
Wales hooker Scott Baldwin (l) and George North react after the International match between Wales and Fiji at Millennium Stadium on November 15, 2014 in Cardiff, Wales. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
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Wales is another country that is known for its tough climate, and the Principality Stadium in Cardiff is no exception. The stadium is known for its retractable roof, which can be closed in the event of bad weather, but when it’s open, players are at the mercy of the elements. The record low temperature at the stadium is -7°C, which may not be as cold as some other grounds, but it’s still pretty chilly.

Twickenham Stadium, London, England

Steve Borthwick
Steve Borthwick – PA

Twickenham Stadium is the home of English rugby, and it’s another ground that can get pretty cold in the winter months. The stadium is located in south-west London, which is generally milder than the rest of the country, but it can still get pretty nippy on a winter’s day. The record low temperature at Twickenham is -5°C, which is cold enough to make even the toughest rugby player shiver.

Stade de France, Paris, France

Six Nations fan supporters
Press Association

Moving across the channel to France, the Stade de France in Paris is another stadium that can get pretty cold in the winter months. The stadium is known for its retractable roof, which can be closed in the event of bad weather, but when it’s open, players are exposed to the elements. The record low temperature at the stadium is -6°C, which is pretty chilly by anyone’s standards.

Playing rugby in cold conditions is never easy, but these four stadiums are some of the toughest environments in the sport. From icy winds to frozen pitches, players have to be at their best to perform in these conditions, and they need to be well-prepared both physically and mentally. But for those who can tough it out, playing rugby in the cold can be one of the most rewarding experiences in the sport…especially when the showers are working properly after the match.

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mitch 4 hours ago
The Wallabies team Joe Schmidt must pick to win back Bledisloe Cup

Rodda will be a walk up starter at lock. Frost if you analyse his dominance has little impact and he’s a long way from being physical enough, especially when you compare to Rodda and the work he does. He was quite poor at the World Cup in his lack of physicality. Between Rodda and Skelton we would have locks who can dominate the breakdown and in contact. Frost is maybe next but Schmidt might go for a more physical lock who does their core work better like Ryan or LSL. Swain is no chance unless there’s a load of injuries. Pollard hasn’t got the scrum ability yet to be considered. Nasser dominated him when they went toe to toe and really showed him up. Picking Skelton effects who can play 6 and 8. Ideally Valetini would play 6 as that’s his best position and Wilson at 8 but that’s not ideal for lineout success. Cale isn’t physical enough yet in contact and defence but is the best backrow lineout jumper followed by Wright, Hanigan and Swinton so unfortunately Valetini probably will start at 8 with Wright or Hanigan at 6. Wilson on the bench, he’s got too much quality not to be in the squad. Paisami is leading the way at 12 but Hamish Stewart is playing extremely well also and his ball carrying has improved significantly. Beale is also another option based on the weekend. Beale is class but he’s also the best communicator of any Australian backline player and that can’t be underestimated, he’ll be in the mix.

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