Games rescheduled as rugby fever infects GAA

SUNDAY’S historic Six Nations game between Ireland and France in Croke Park has sparked widespread alterations in next weekend’s GAA programme.

Games in the Allianz Football League, the All-Ireland Club Championships and colleges fixtures have been rescheduled at earlier times — or on Saturday — to avoid a clash with the first rugby international at the Jones Road venue.

GAA spokesperson Fergal McGill said that many teams have opted to change the times and dates so supporters will be able to watch the rugby.

“Sunday will be the first time that a GAA venue will be used for a rugby international and there was a general feeling because it was an historic occasion that there would be a big interest in the event.

“Croke Park doesn’t have the right to change times and dates of games. It’s simply a general wish by counties and clubs that their matches be played earlier and on Saturday to avoid a clash.”