Rugby Australia (RA) has announced that the 2020 Buildcorp Super W season has been finalised, with the NSW Waratahs Women being named champions for the third time in the three-year history of the competition.

The Waratahs were undefeated after four matches including a 41-8 victory over the Brumbies W earlier in the season.

The early completion of the Super W season is due to the ongoing public health crisis of COVID-19 that is affecting the entire sporting landscape across Australia and around the world.

We have already seen the suspension of the Super Rugby, AFL and NRL this season.

RA, the State and Territory Unions, and Rugby Australia Chief Medical Officer, Warren McDonald agreed that the season could not be completed in the short term and the immediate conclusion would provide certainty.

The Brumbies were third on the ladder and due to face the second placed Queensland Reds W for a place in the grand final.

The Brumbies won two and lost two games for the season and their one meeting against the Reds ended in a 24-12 loss.

The Brumbies released a statement supporting the decision made by RA but also looking forward to improving next season.

Brumbies Coach Adam Butt said: “Whilst it’s disappointing for us that our season ends today, we understand that this is bigger than rugby.”

“We were really excited about the challenge against the Reds, having made a lot of improvements this year but we fully support the decision Rugby Australia have made.

“Congratulations to the Waratahs, they were the best team again this year and are worthy champions.

“We will be back bigger and better next year,” he said.