The scheduled Heineken Cup rugby match between Saracens and Biarritz in Cape Town has been relocated, due to the conflict between the Cape Town City Council and the Western Province Rugby Union - and will be played in London instead.
Scheduled to be played in Cape Town on 14th January, Saracens announced the decision on its website, Saracens.com.
The European Cup pool game was initially due to be played at the Cape Town Stadium, however, the Western Province Rugby Union revealed its displeasure at the decision and earlier this week announced it would attempt to move the game to Newlands.
WPRFU said earlier in the week: ‘After a recent meeting by the Western Province Rugby Football Union Executive Committee, the request by Saracens to host the match at Cape Town Stadium was considered. However, the Executive Committee decided that the home of rugby, Newlands, would stage this historic match.’
Saracens commented: ‘We have no wish to be a catalyst for conflict between the City of Cape Town and the Western Province Rugby Union. Saracens looks forward to playing a competitive match in Cape Town as soon as local circumstances allow.’
Supporters who have bought tickets in South Africa will be fully refunded and the club will engage with UK-based supporters who have already booked air tickets and accommodation, and ensure they are appropriately compensated.
