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Rugby, like all ball sports, can be affected by the weather tremendously; however, it's very unlikely that a game will be called off. The most likely affect will be on the way the game is played and the tactics used by the teams.

Effects of wind

The design of rugby stadiums can play a part in the impact of the weather. The wind can come into the stadium and buffet off the stands and blow the ball around. This may not only affect the handling abilities of the players, and demand more skill, but it could also affect the tactics of the match. If it’s particularly strong, teams are likely to choose to play into the wind in the first half and then use it to their advantage in the latter stages of the game to kick the ball further.

Kicking at goal will be made harder as well, and the players will have to take note of the way the wind is blowing as it will affect which direction to aim in, and how hard the ball needs to be kicked

When it starts raining

The main impact of rain during a rugby game will be the affect on the pitch. A lot of the bigger clubs will have underground draining systems so the surface doesn't get too wet and covered in puddles. However, if the rain's extremely heavy, or the club doesn't have such a system in place, conditions under foot can be quite tricky. Even with studded boots, getting good grip on the ground will be harder with more rain. Also, if the ground is quite soft, it will slow the players down, and also tire them out quicker. Visibility on the pitch is likely to be affected by the rain. The heavier it is the harder it will be to see.

This will change the way the game is played as players won't be able to see their team mates as well. Long passes or kicks are likely to be reduced, and short passes will most likely be the norm. Kicking at goal is going to be affected too, because if the rain's really bad, it will be harder to see the posts.

If the players get particularly wet, they're going to get colder too, and with that is the risk of their body temperature cooling. While this may not be a problem the majority of times, however on a harsh winter's day in that could lead to illness, cramp, or other more serious injuries.

Sun shine and its effect on Rugby

The glare of the sun can also affect the game. If it shines into the eyes of the players they may temporarily not be able to see their team mates, so increases the margin of error when passing. It can however be used as an advantage, by confusing or off-putting the opposition, especially with things like chip-kicks.