Women’s & U20s 2021 Six Nations postponed

Six Nations confirmed it will finalise the respective timings and formats for both the Women’s and U20’s competitions in consultation with all unions, broadcast partners and stakeholders, with full details to be announced by the end of January.

CEO of Six Nations Rugby Limited, Ben Morel, said: “We are fiercely committed to the promotion and development of rugby at all levels, particularly the women’s game where we see such exciting opportunity for growth. This is not a decision that we rushed into and we are confident that in looking at a new later window, we will be in a far stronger position to deliver two fantastic tournaments, delivering exciting rugby for fans, and ensuring the safest possible environment in which to stage them for our players.”

The dynamic nature of the external environment and the ongoing challenges it presents, particularly for sports and teams of amateur status, meant a collective agreement to push both Championships to new later windows was prudent to ensure, where possible, that both competitions can be played safely and without interruption in 2021.

Scottish Rugby’s Head of Girls’ and Women’s Performance Rugby, Gemma Fay, said: “While it is disappointing that the tournament could not go ahead as scheduled, we support the decision taken by Six Nations and will work closely with the tournament to identify dates on which all postponed matches will take place.

“Due to the unpredictable nature of this virus, it is important that we continue to be agile and flexible, as we have been for the past year, in dealing with these situations, particularly as we strive to be ready for the qualification tournament for this year’s World Cup.”

“Throughout this difficult period, I have continually been impressed by how our players and management have adapted to each challenge and I have no doubt that they will continue to work hard as we prepare for Six Nations and the World Cup Qualifiers.”

Scottish Rugby is committed to playing in the U20 Six Nations when the timings and the format of the Championship are confirmed.

Whilst closely monitoring the situation, Six Nations have also confirmed plans to stage the men’s Guinness Six Nations Championship remain as scheduled. Following the successful completion of the 2020 Guinness Six Nations and Autumn Nations Cup, Six Nations Rugby is in constant dialogue with each of its governmental authorities and is further reinforcing its Covid-19 protocols. Scotland’s Six Nations campaign kicks off on Saturday 6 February against England at Twickenham (kick-off 4.45pm).