The Netherlands-based company, with more than 30 years of experience in the artificial turf industry, joins the IRB Preferred Turf Producer Programme having met the governing body’s player welfare, technical and performance criteria.

Launched in December 2010, the programme provides a regulated one-stop solution for organisations seeking to install artificial surfaces.

It means that the same producer will be able to manufacture, install and maintain IRB Regulation 22 compliant surfaces, opening the way for elite and community level matches to be played on artificial surfaces and promoting player welfare best practice.

Edel Grass commercial director Bas van den Berg said: "Edel Grass is delighted to be a part of the IRB Preferred Turf Producer programme and very excited about cooperating with the IRB in developing the Player Welfare philosophy through high quality artificial surface installations for the ever expanding game of rugby."

Image: Meggetland, home ground of Boroughmuir Rugby Football Club in Scotland