LAST UPDATE | 13 Mar 2020
THE WELSH RUGBY Union [WRU] has confirmed that the Six Nations clash between Wales and Scotland that was due to take place in Cardiff tomorrow has been postponed amidst the Covid-19 coronavirus crisis.
Earlier today, the WRU had released a statement saying the game would go ahead at Principality Stadium but that decision has now been reversed.
Wales v Scotland is the fourth game of this year’s Six Nations to be postponed.
Ireland had their home fixture against Italy and their away tie against France postponed, while England’s visit to Rome to take on the Italians was also postponed.
The 2020 Six Nations will, therefore, not be concluded until later this year as long as tournament organisers can reschedule these postponed games, as they insist they will strive to do.
The late change of mind on the Wales v Scotland came after the home side had completed their captain’s run in Cardiff today and it is understood the final decision was made as Scotland were taking to the pitch for theirs.
“Wales’ Guinness Six Nations clash with Scotland at Principality Stadium in Cardiff tomorrow has been postponed,” reads a new WRU statement.
“The Welsh Rugby Union has maintained an open dialogue with, and continued to seek advice and direction from, the National Assembly for Wales and other stakeholders, including the Six Nations, on this fast-moving issue.
“Whilst medical advice remains consistent, we have decided that it is in the best interests of supporters, players and staff to fall in line with recent measures taken across the UK and global sports industries.
“The WRU would like to thank all parties for their counsel on the subject and will make further announcements with respect to rescheduling the fixture in the coming days.
“Every effort has been made to stage this game and we appreciate that individuals will have been inconvenienced. Given the fluid and unprecedented nature of this issue, a postponement became the only viable option.”
The Six Nations will now look to reschedule the fixture for later this year, along with the three other postponed games.
Earlier today, the WRU had insisted the game was going ahead as originally scheduled.
“The Welsh Rugby Union has confirmed tomorrow’s (Saturday) Guinness Six Nations clash with Scotland at Principality Stadium will go ahead as planned,” read the earlier WRU statement.
“WRU representatives have been in dialogue with Welsh Assembly Government minister for Health and Social Services Vaughan Gething, who provided much needed clarity on the Cobra meeting held yesterday.
“Throughout the WRU Board have followed the scientific advice of government, Public Health Wales and medical experts and determined that any game would be held or postponed based on that advice.
“Enhanced facilities for hand washing and sanitisation will be available at the stadium and there are measures in place to manage any issues with attendees on the day. In addition supporters are urged to follow the advice that is widely available on government websites in relation to the virus.”
In the end, sense has finally prevailed, although only after many supporters will have travelled to Cardiff.
