URC calls off next two rounds in South Africa

The next two rounds of URC games to be played in South Africa have been postponed after the country was added to the UK Government's red travel list.

A new coronavirus variant has been discovered and South Africa is one of six countries to be added to the list by UK officials.

The URC has responded accordingly, with the weekendgames between stormers andZebre,Sh ark sand Scarlets, Bulls and Munster and Lions and Cardiff Blues all called off.

"The safety and wellbeing of our participating clubs' players, coaches and support staff and match officials is the foremost priority and the URC is currently working with the four visiting clubs - Cardiff Rugby, Munster Rugby, Scarlets and Zebre Parma - to facilitate their return as soon as possible," a statement from URC said.

"This decision is based upon the latest guidance against non-essential travel to and from South Africa, the ban on direct flights to the UK and other home destinations and the potential hotel quarantines enforced upon those returning from South Africa. As has been the operating practice throughout the pandemic, the URC will continue engaging with our Medical Advisory Group, our union shareholders and respective governments to plan according to the latest health guidelines.

"A period of assessment will now be required to better understand the impact of these new travel restrictions and how to reschedule these games."