World Rugby is expected to issue an update on Thursday if any World Cup games will be affected by an incoming typhoon in Japan.
Decisive games in Pool A and Pool C this weekend are under threat from typhoon Hagibis, one of the most violent typhoons in recent history.
In Pool A, Ireland face Samoa in Fukuoka on Saturday before hosts Japan take on Scotland in Yokohama on Sunday. Both games will decide which team progresses to the playoffs. Meanwhile, England face France in Yokohama on Saturday, a game which will determine who finishes first and second in Pool C.
World Rugby may be forced to cancel all three games as Hagibis is expected to hit Fukuoka on Saturday and progress to Yokohama on Sunday. World Rugby announced before the World Cup that any games cancelled due to weather would be registered as draws and the competing teams would be awarded two points each.
A decision from the governing body is expected to be made on Thursday, 48 hours before England’s game against France kicks off.
World Rugby released a statement on Tuesday, saying they are monitoring the situation.
‘Public and team safety is our number one priority. While we have robust contingency plans in place for pool matches, such plans, if required, will only be actioned if the safety of teams, fans, and workforce can be guaranteed. It would be inappropriate to comment on any contingency plans at this stage.
‘We will continue to closely monitor this developing situation in partnership with our weather information experts, local authorities, transport providers and the teams, and will provide a further update Wednesday. Fans are advised to monitor official Rugby World Cup channels for any updates.’
Rumours abounding that games affected by #TyphoonHagibis may be moved – going against original tourney rules.
Presumably they will be played in closed stadiums as – besides logistical issues – the 70,000 scheduled to watch at #rwcyokohama won’t fit in anywhere else. #RWC2019
— Rich Freeman (@FreemanrugbyJPN) October 9, 2019
