WALES’ Six Nations clash with Scotland on Saturday has been postponed because of the coronavirus outbreak.

The announcement came just 24 hours before the teams were set to go head-to-head at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium.

A Welsh Rugby Union statement read: “The Welsh Rugby Union has maintained an open dialogue with, and continued to seek advice and direction from, the Welsh Government 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 WRU had insisted earlier that the match, Wales’ last of this year’s tournament, would be going ahead.

A statement released this morning read: “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.”

The postponement means that there are now four fixtures outstanding in this year’s tournament – no date has been confirmed to complete the championship.

Tonight’s Under-20 Six Nations match between Wales and Scotland in Colwyn Bay went ahead but was played behind closed doors.

Meanwhile, Scottish Rugby has suspended all rugby for the rest of the month.

A Scottish Rugby spokesperson said: “We have taken on board all expert medical advice before now and we are taking a precautionary approach to give time to assess what the impact of coronavirus will be on Scottish society in the coming weeks before deciding on next steps.

“This decision has been taken with the best interest of everyone involved in the game and in support of the country’s work to address the impact of Coronavirus.”