Rugby: Coronavirus outbreak causes cancellation of Fiji v France Autumn Nations Cup game

The Autumn Nations Cup. Photo / Getty

France was awarded a 28-0 win with a bonus point on Tuesday after its rugby match against Fiji was cancelled in the Autumn Nations Cup.

A coronavirus outbreak within the Fiji squad forced the cancellation of the opening match for both teams scheduled last Sunday in Vannes.

"Whilst no fault has been apportioned to Fiji Rugby, the competition rules provide that if a team is primarily responsible for a match not taking place, a 28-0 victory will be awarded to the opposition that could have played the match," Cup organizers said.

They added they were working with the Fijians, subject to more virus tests, to ensure they can field a competitive side against Italy on Saturday in Ancona.

The 28-0 decision put France atop Group B, ahead of Scotland on points difference.
France and Scotland meet on Sunday at Murrayfield in the second round.

Fiji, whose warm-up test against Portugal was also cancelled due to the outbreak, were due to play Italy on Saturday but a decision on whether it will go ahead will be taken after additional rounds of testing.

"We wish the affected Fiji players well as they continue their recovery and are working closely with the Fiji team, to ensure that they are able to field a competitive team against Italy," organisers added.