Update | Scotland first international games behind closed doors

16 Oct 2020

Scotland's first game of the new season will be played behind closed doors and will be shown live on ITV4.

The Scottish Government has confirmed that although professional sport can proceed this month, due to COVID-19 restrictions, games must be played behind closed doors. As a result, Scotland’s opening match of the season, the warm-up game against Georgia at BT Murrayfield on Friday 23 October (7.30pm) will not be open to spectators. The game will be shown ‘live’ on ITV4.

“While we welcome the return of international rugby to BT Murrayfield, we would have loved to see fans at the match,” said Dominic McKay, Scottish Rugby’s Chief Operating Officer. “Unfortunately, government restrictions mean that isn’t possible for this game and our conversations with them continue on this subject. We’re therefore delighted the match will be broadcast live on ITV4 giving fans great access to the first Scotland match of the season and we hope the result will help to lift everyone’s spirits in these difficult times.”

All NEVIS members who have signed up to the season 2020/21 membership have been contacted directly to update them on this change and to provide further information regarding match ticket ballots. The Scottish Government will be reviewing its guidelines on public gatherings, events and physical-distancing at least once before Scotland’s next home games, and although unable to guarantee crowds will be permitted, Scottish Rugby will continue to prepare for such an eventuality.

The other international match in Scotland next weekend is Scotland’s rescheduled Women’s Six Nations match against France on Sunday 25 October (2.20pm) at Scotstoun Stadium. This game will also be played behind closed doors due to the current restrictions, but supporters can watch the match live on BBC ALBA.

If you are interested in attending any of the games during Season 2020/21 there is still time to purchase your Nevis membership and secure your place in the match ticket ballots. To find out more about the NEVIS membership, please visit our Membership page here

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