Maya Forstater

In rugby, it’s not just unfair, it’s dangerous.

Rugby is a dangerous sport full stop. People can and do die playing the sports they love. As an adult you have the right to make your own choices. As a woman who has managed risk her entire life, I find it patronising for others to decide for me that s/thing is too dangerous.

What’s that got to do with the actual topic?

Pretty much everything. As women have to consent to playing someone who was born male and subsequently transitioned it places the decision firmly in their hands. They can make informed choices if they understand the risks involved. It is their decision to play or compete.

So women have a choice play rugby, against male bodied people or don't play at all? Some choice.

Given the low number of trans athletes that isn't the choice on offer. The choice would be on occasion you might play a player who was born male. It isn't going to be a choice that you will need to make often. 9/10 you will be playing against other biological women.

Here are the results for Porth Harlequin Ladies. Having a trans player doesn't seem to give them a competitive advantage see http://porthharlequins.rfc.wales/teams/9290/womens …

For one thing those are last season’s results. Was the trans player in the team? Secondly, if you have 14 useless players and one man they will still not necessarily win.