All rugby players over the age of 16 are being encouraged to undergo cardiac screenings tests.

Thanks to a new initiative by the RFU, Premiership Rugby and the Rugby Players' Association, all Aviva Premiership,  regional academy and England players down to U16 level will have tests carried out by Cardiac Risk in the Young, a charity seeking to raise awareness of undetected cardiac abnormalities in young people. 

Such abnormalities are rare but can be inherent and affect even the fittest athletes.  Competitive sport increases the risks of anyone with heart disease, and results can be fatal. 

To find out more, go to www.c-r-y.org.uk