The break between seasons is often a time of reflection and resetting. The Tigers boys will come back fresh and with new goals during what has been a huge period of transition at the club.

For some it is not much of a break at all, our Tigers internationals will be in action in a couple of weeks with George Ford, Ben Youngs, Ellis Genge and Joe Heyes currently training with England and Fijian wings Nemani Nadolo and Kini Murimurivalu heading for the Autumn Nations Cup. 

However, in the times we live in, it is hard to completely switch off and, as the country braces itself for tighter restrictions, we are reminded of the threat that cases of Covid can bring.

To hear that members of players and staff at Sale Sharks and Wasps have tested positive at the business end of a turbulent season highlights the trouble in which clubs can still find themselves.

Protocols will be necessary for the foreseeable future. This will be no 'normal' pre-season. 

There is so much work going on at Welford Road and Oval Park to make sure that the ‘homes' of Tigers remain Covid secure. From bio-secure training to socially-distanced events, everyone at the club understands the threat that remains out there. 

In just five weeks' time we will do battle again, but for now, rugby rivalries are put aside when player welfare and safety are threatened and The Tig wishes those affected a safe recovery.