Harlequins have asked staff, players and coaches to take a 25 per cent pay cut in order to ensure the club survives the financial implications of the coronavirus outbreak. 

The pandemic is continuing to have a significant impact on sport, with the Gallagher Premiership season on hold while other rugby leagues have had their campaigns suspended indefinitely.  

The Twickenham outfit are not the only club to make changes with Gloucester, Saracens, Wasps, Bristol and Worcester also cutting wages to deal with the loss of match-day revenue. 

In an announcement on Monday evening, chief executive Laurie Dalrymple said: “Today, we have made the difficult decision to ask all our staff, players and coaches to support the club through a 25% reduction of salary. 

“We will look after our lowest earners and those facing financial difficulty. 

“This move hasn’t been taken lightly, but in order to protect jobs, the future of Harlequins and the excellent and committed people that resides within.

"Even with this important contribution, we will need all of our stakeholders to come together to help secure the club’s future.

“In the coming days, the focus of our club will switch to supporting our local communities, doing our best to support those who need our help.

"Our social networks will be used to share health, fitness and welfare advice to help everyone through this difficult period – last week saw The Harlequins Foundation team launch free keep fit videos for example.

“A club is at its best when it comes together and acts as a community. Over the coming weeks and months, we will need to call upon everyone to get behind the club to ensure its survival and enable it to flourish again.

“Stay safe and look after those around you. #COYQ"