Ireland's final game against France in the Women's Six Nations has been cancelled and next month's World Cup European Qualifying competition has been postponed.
The Ireland and France game was one of three games yet to be played but Six Nations Rugby says it has taken the "difficult decision" not to proceed given the Covid-19 restrictions currently in place.
The table for the 2020 tournament will remain as it stands with England already crowned Grand Slam champions after playing and winning all five of their games.
"This was an extremely tough decision that was only taken after we had explored every possible option to get these matches played," Six Nations chief executive Ben Morel said.
"It is especially disappointing that these cancellations come at a time when there is such positive momentum around the women's game and for the Women's Six Nations in particular.
"We will now, with our unions, put our focus and energy toward the 2021 Championship."
Adam Griggs side were also due to play in the World Cup European Qualifiers next month against Italy, Scotland and the winner of the postponed Rugby Europe Women’s Championship.
IRFU Director of Women’s Rugby, Anthony Eddy, today said that they will look at the performance opportunities available to his women’s team after World Rugby, Rugby Europe and Six Nations confirmed fixture postponements and cancelations due to COVID-19. https://t.co/7QmGnM12Nc
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) November 10, 2020
IRFU Director of Women’s Rugby, Anthony Eddy said: "Covid-19 has been disruptive for so many people, and from the start of the pandemic we set out to be flexible and dynamic in our response to ever changing circumstances.
"The squad has been positive through all of this and will continue to work hard to improve.
"We have been focusing on the qualifiers for well over a year now and that will not change.
"The group achieved three home Six Nations wins in 2020 which is an excellent outcome, and this additional time will allow more preparation in qualifying for the 2021 World Cup.
"The squad has a busy schedule and our plan will slightly change – they will regroup and competition for spots will intensify as we all focus on preparation for 2021."
The IRFU says it will work with World Rugby and the other Unions affected to identify a window in 2021 to play the qualifiers.
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