Scotland’s Six Nations match against France lined up for March 26

Scotland’s postponed Guinness Six Nations match with France is being lined up for March 26 with the Gallagher Premiership clubs open to the release of players for the new date, the PA news agency understands.

The Friday night slot is the only window being considered by tournament organisers and the date has been given momentum by the Top 14 clubs coming to arrangement with the French Rugby Federation over making their stars available.

And the English top flight have indicated during discussions that they are also willing to make their Scotland players available to Gregor Townsend even though the date falls outside of the international window.

The round three game was due to take place on Sunday but was postponed when a coronavirus outbreak swept through the French squad, affecting 12 frontline players including captain Charles Ollivon and reigning player of the Championship Antoine Dupont.

It is understood that the Premiership clubs have softened their customary hard-line stance on player release outside international windows in recognition of the complications caused by the pandemic.

Six Nations officials are hoping to make an announcement soon.