Following discussion between the RFU and Barbarian  FC and the latest government update on coronavirus, the decision has been made to postpone the Quilter Cup.

The fixture, due to take place between England and the Barbarians on 21 June 2020 at Twickenham Stadium, is due to be rescheduled later in the year, subject to government guidelines and the wider international rugby schedule.

John Spencer, President of Barbarian FC, said: “At this unprecedented time, the health and safety of fans, spectators, players and staff alike are of paramount importance and it is therefore sensible and right that we postpone the Quilter Cup.

“We always love playing England at Twickenham and welcoming a raft of international stars to ensure a close contest and great spectacle for all. We will monitor developments across the world of rugby with respect to a return to sport and hope to announce a rescheduled date for this historic fixture.

“Our famous Club is built on friendship and enjoyment, as well as a passion for our sport. Rugby will return and we hope to be at the forefront of bringing it back to fans across the globe. 

“As the Barbarians is an uniquely mulitinational side, we of course will be keeping track of sporting and travel restrictions and developments around the world. We look forward to working with the unions to stage a fixture for the famous Black and White when it is safe and practical to do so.”

The latest UK government guidelines on elite sport, produced by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in conjunction with sporting governing bodies, paves the way for elite athletes to return to training together; however this will be in line with the government’s alert system and details remain to be confirmed.

In the meantime, from us all to our Barbarians family across the world, stay safe and healthy.