After the discovery of a new Covid-19 variant in South Africa, the British Government placed the country on its red list for travel restrictions.
Both Scarlets and Cardiff had been in South Africa preparing for URC matches against Cell C Sharks and Emirates Lions on Saturday and Sunday respectively.
Those games – plus DHL Stormers against Zebre and the Blue Bulls’ meeting with Munster – have been postponed because of the discovery of the new Covid-19 variant.
As of Friday evening, both Scarlets and Cardiff Rugby were trying to find a flight home from South Africa.
If their players and staff do not land in the United Kingdom by 4am on Sunday morning then they will have to quarantine in a hotel.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said the UK “acted immediately” with a “safety first approach.”
He added: “We can’t take risks when it comes to something that could defeat the vaccine” which is something scientists fear may be possible.
A URC statement read: “Due to the sudden developments connected with the new Covid-19 variant (B.1.1.529) that have immediately placed South Africa on the UK and EU travel red lists, the scheduled Round 6 and 7 United Rugby Championship fixtures set to take place in South Africa over the next two weekends have been postponed and will be rescheduled later this season.
“The safety and well-being 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.
“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 within the current season.
“Given the nature and speed of these developments, URC will provide further updates at the appropriate time through official channels only.”
