European Challenge Cup: Cardiff Blues v Stade Francais called off
- Published
Blues won away at Newcastle Falcons in their opening Challenge Cup game
Cardiff Blues' European Challenge Cup match against Stade Francais has been cancelled because of the French side's Covid-19 concerns.
Stade faced Benetton in their opening game of the competition last weekend and the Italian side have recorded a number of positive Covid-19 tests.
European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR), the competition organiser, has decided the game should be cancelled.
Blues have been awarded a 28-0 win as well as five match points.
"It is disappointing the fixture will not be fulfilled, however Cardiff Blues understand the decision and send the club's best wishes to Stade Francais and any other clubs affected at this time," Blues said in a statement..
"The health and safety of the entire rugby family is paramount at this time and the club would like to thank EPCR, Stade Francais and staff at Rodney Parade for their professionalism.
"Preparations for a return to Pro14 action will now begin while continuing to follow stringent protocols and procedures from the tournament organiser, the Welsh Rugby Union and Public Health Wales."
Stade lost 44-20 at home to Benetton in their opening Challenge Cup game on 11 December.
In a statement the EPCR said: "There is no evidence that any Paris players or staff were exposed to the virus during the Round 1 fixture."
Stade Francais staff and players subsequently tested negative for the virus and a Medical Risk Assessment Committee was satisfied the game against Blues could go ahead at Rodney Parade on Sunday.
But the French side were reluctant to travel to Wales and informed the EPCR of their concerns.
Blues' fellow Welsh region Scarlets were also handed a 28-0 'victory' after their Heineken Champions Cup match with Toulon was cancelled on Friday.
The game had been called off less than two hours before kick-off after Toulon had pulled out, citing concerns about a Scarlets player testing positive for Covid-19 after playing against Bath last weekend.