Six Nations dismiss talk of 'Four Nations'

Six Nations tournament organisers this evening issued a statement to deny a report on a potential ‘contingency plan’ for Ireland, England, Scotland, and Wales this autumn.

The Rugby Paper had reported that English and Welsh unions had backed a move to play an ‘emergency Four Nations‘ in October and November, to cushion any loss of November Tests, with France and Italy excluded due to ‘travel and quarantine issues’.

"The Six Nations wishes to clarify its position amid inaccurate media speculation relating to the staging of a '4 Nations'," read a statement.

"Six Nations together with its constituent unions and federations is fully committed to completing the 2020 Guinness Six Nations Championship and hopes to stage postponed matches later this year.

"In exploring rescheduling options, the health and safety of players, associated staff and of course supporters is our number one priority and any rescheduled matches will be subject to government guidance and to travel restrictions between countries. Six Nations remains in close contact with all relevant authorities to ensure these matches can take place in a safe environment.

"Six Nations and its constituent unions and federations continue to work closely with World Rugby, the Southern Hemisphere unions and all other rugby stakeholders on contingency plans regarding Autumn Internationals and the recently impacted Summer tours.

"The current situation is fluid and fast changing with countries at different stages in battling this pandemic. We anticipate it will take a few more weeks before the situation becomes clearer and we can present more definitive options in which to resume activity."