A Cheetahs vs Ulster showdown in the Netherlands has been postponed, leaving rugby fans disappointed. But here's where it gets controversial...
The highly anticipated European Challenge Cup match between Ulster and the Cheetahs was scheduled to take place in Amsterdam, but sub-zero temperatures and a treacherous pitch led to a last-minute cancellation.
Initially, the match was set to kick off at 15:15 GMT in Amsterdam, but with freezing conditions forecast, the decision was made on Friday to relocate the game to Duke Rugby Club in s-Hertogenbosch, with an earlier start time of 13:00 GMT.
However, Mother Nature had other plans. Overnight snow and freezing temperatures rendered the pitch at Duke Rugby Club unplayable, with the governing body, European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR), deeming it a risk to player welfare.
In a statement, the EPCR announced the match was "postponed until further notice" and that their Board Crisis Management Group would meet to determine the next steps.
Ulster, currently fourth in Pool Three, had started their European campaign with a win against Racing 92, followed by a narrow defeat in Cardiff. Meanwhile, the Cheetahs had suffered losses to both Exeter Chiefs and Stade Francais.
Richie Murphy's Ulster side will now look to their final Pool stage match at home against Stade Francais, who have already secured their place in the last 16, on Saturday.
This unexpected turn of events has left rugby enthusiasts wondering about the future of this fixture. Will it be rescheduled? And if so, when? These questions remain unanswered, leaving fans eager for an update.
What are your thoughts on this postponement? Do you think it was the right call, or should the show have gone on regardless of the conditions? We'd love to hear your opinions in the comments below!
