The RFU this week issued a warning to rugby fans not to buy international match tickets from unofficial sources such as website auctions or they will be left with cancelled tickets and out of pocket.

The RFU is enforcing a strict new policy to combat the unauthorised resale of Twickenham match tickets on ebay and other auctions sites as part of its ongoing fight to cut illegal ticket sales and protect rugby fans from profiteering.

Said Paul Vaughan, RFU Business Operations Director, “The RFU is taking a deliberately tough stance by enforcing its ticket terms and conditions which have been put in place to ensure that tickets are not abused and that buyers are protected from profiteering.

“Our ticketing system is designed to ensure that genuine supporters have the first opportunity to buy tickets for international matches at Twickenham. We do this by offering anyone who is involved in the game the opportunity to buy tickets through their clubs, which in turn encourages the ongoing growth of our sport.

“After this first opportunity, tickets are offered for general sale through Ticketmaster, as is the case with the England v Argentina match next month, as we know that many thousands of people who are not club members are keen to experience a major international at Twickenham.

“In all cases, our terms and conditions prevent ticket holders from selling, or attempting to sell, their tickets on. When a ticket is found for sale on any auction website or exchange that is not managed by the RFU or its appointed agent that ticket will be cancelled and there will be no refund.

“Although it is unfortunate that the last buyer who will be the one to lose out, we must reinforce the message that tickets should only be bought from an official source, namely the RFU or its appointed agent, Ticketmaster. Anyone considering buying or selling their tickets online should know that they risk losing their tickets as well as the money they paid for them.”