Sean Lynn’s side were due to end their tournament on Saturday in Italy, but are now awaiting a new date
Wales’ final Women’s Six Nations match against Italy has been postponed due to the funeral of Pope Francis.
The two teams were due to meet in Parma in the final round of the tournament on Saturday, April 26. However, following the death of the late Pope Francis on Easter Monday at the age of 88, the Vatican has announced that the funeral will take place on Saturday morning – with sporting fixtures having already been postponed in Italy.
Four Serie A football matches were postponed on Easter Monday and moved to Wednesday.
And now the Six Nations have asked broadcasters to move Saturday’s game – although it is currently unclear when Sean Lynn’s side will finish their tournament.
It’s understood that Friday evening and Sunday are being considered as options.
However, Italy’s government has declared five days of national mourning up to the funeral on Saturday.
Wales also last played on Sunday against Ireland at Rodney Parade, meaning a Friday clash would mean a five-day turnaround for them.
It’s understood that talks are currently ongoing about a solution. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby.
Wales are due to travel out to Italy on Thursday evening, although that may need to change.
Speaking before any decision on the game was made, Wales vice-captain Keira Bevan has said that the squad was preparing as normal.
“There’s nothing we can do right now apart from prepare as if the game is going ahead this weekend,” she said.
“We can’t think about whether the game is not going ahead or we could get caught out. We are preparing as normal.”
Wales are currently winless in this year’s Six Nations, following their 40-14 defeat to the Irish on Sunday.
Sitting bottom of the table, Lynn’s side can still avoid finishing bottom.
Scotland, who host Ireland this weekend, sit three points ahead of Wales in the table.
