Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
This isn’t the route fourward
SIX NATIONS chiefs have rubbished speculation that a ‘Four Nations’ tournament in November will go ahead without the involvement of France and Italy.
It was reported that Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales had agreed a series of Test games between them to generate much needed revenue.
However, a Six Nations statement released last night said that the ‘Four Nations’ claim is “inaccurate media speculation” – though Welsh Rugby chairman Gareth Davies had also floated the idea less than a week ago, if travel to the continent was unfeasible.
The statement reads: “Six Nations together with its constituent unions and federations is fully committed to completing the 2020 Guinness Six Nations Championship and hopes to stage postponed matches later this year.
“In exploring rescheduling options, the health and safety of players, associated staff and of course supporters is our number one priority and any rescheduled matches will be subject to government guidance and to travel restrictions between countries.
“Six Nations remains in close contact with all relevant authorities to ensure these matches can take place in a safe environment.
“Six Nations and its constituent unions and federations continue to work closely with World Rugby, the Southern Hemisphere unions and all other rugby stakeholders on contingency plans regarding Autumn Internationals and the recently impacted Summer tours.
“The current situation is fluid and fast changing with countries at different stages in battling this pandemic.
“We anticipate it will take a few more weeks before the situation becomes clearer and we can present more definitive options in which to resume activity.”