Contested scrums for U14s next season?

EXCLUSIVE! You read it here first - literally because its not been announced anywhere else yet.

In a surprise development RFUW are likely (unless anyone seriously objects) to allow U14s to play with contested scrums - and on full-sized pitches - next season, provided both coaches agree. This is to allow a transition to the new U15 rules in the 2007-2008 season.

What this will mean in practice is that - if both sides have front rows capable of contesting a scrum - they can go ahead, but if one side if too small then things will stay as they are.

It also means that its likely that there will be contested scrums at regional level, especially as I imagine Pete (East's U14 coach) would jump at the chance.

The use of full size pitches is another interesting development, RFUW's only concern being how smaller U12s (Years 7s) will cope with the wide open spaces.