Coronavirus hits Six Nations: Women's match postponed

Coronavirus has claimed its first Six Nations fixture, with Italy and Scotland Womens’ match in Northern Italy now officially postponed.

The Six Nations have said: “Further to an increased number of Covid-19 cases in the Milan Area, the Italian Authorities have decided to cancel all sporting events in the Veneto and Lombardi Regions.

“As a result of this decision, the Women’s Six Nations match between Italy and Scotland scheduled to be played today will not take place.

Continue reading below…

WATCH: Wales post-match press conference with head coach Wayne Pivac and captain Alun Wyn Jones after 27-23 Guinness Six Nations defeat to France in Cardiff.

“Six Nations Rugby are looking at options with the FIR and Scottish Rugby to reschedule this fixture at a later date.

“We will be staying in contact with the FIR and Italian Authorities to keep updated on the situation in the region.”

RugbyPass columnist Jamie Lyall was due to the commentate on the game, but is now set to fly back to Scotland.

In a hotel on the outskirts of Milan where I was due to commentate on Italy v Scotland in the Women's Six Nations today. However, the game has been postponed due to an increased number of coronavirus cases in Northern Italy. Lots of other events off too. Pretty scary stuff.

— Jamie Lyall (@JLyall93) February 23, 2020

Earlier this month the Hong Kong Sevens tournament was postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak and there could be further implications for Super Rugby games.

The South China Morning Post reported the prestigious Hong Kong Sevens tournament, which hosts 40,000 people each day and was scheduled for April 3-6, has been shelved for six months due to on-going health fears in the city.

The Hong Kong Sevens has run every year since 1976 and was due to host its 45th event, where the Black Ferns and All Blacks sevens were due to compete.