Highlanders and Crusaders match cancelled in wake of Christchurch terror attacks

The Super Rugby match between the Crusaders and the Highlanders has been cancelled as a way of showing respect to the victims of the Christchurch terrorist attacks.

My heart is hurting about the news coming out of Christchurch. Sending love & prayers to the effected families❤️😢 pic.twitter.com/7PX9wc56b8

— Sonny Bill Williams (@SonnyBWilliams) March 15, 2019

New Zealand Rugby announced the decision shortly after 2pm today after NZ Rugby's Chief Rugby Officer Nigel Cass said there was detailed discussions with both teams.

NZRU Chief Rugby Officer Nigel Cass

Cass said the decision to call off the game was the right thing to do as there was a discussion on how best to show their respect.

He adds both teams made the final call not to proceed as a mark of respect for the events that have occurred in Christchurch.

In a statement Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge said their entire club community was in a state of shock.

Mansbridge says the horrific attacks have left them all feeling stunned and they have made arrangements for the team to return home as soon as possible.

In 2011, after the Christchurch earthquakes, the Crusaders and Hurricanes were both awarded two competition points after their round two game was cancelled and Cass said NZ Rugby would use that precedent in discussions with Sanzaar in the coming days

[Source: stuff.co.nz]

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