Wales’ re-scheduled Guinness Six Nations clash with Scotland and Autumn Nations Cup opener against Georgia will both take place at Parc y Scarlets, the Welsh Rugby Union has announced.
No games this year can be played at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff as the venue is still in use as the Dragons Heart Hospital.
Wayne Pivac’s side have therefore taken the opportunity to base themselves at the home of Guinness PRO14 outfit Scarlets for the matches on October 31 (Scotland) and November 21 (Georgia). The Scotland clash will mark the first time the senior men’s Welsh rugby team have played in Llanelli since 1998.
Venues are yet to be set for Wales’ final two Autumn Nations Cup matches, against England on November 28 and the Play-Off Final fixture the following weekend.
WRU CEO Steve Phillips said: “We have taken the call to play our first two home matches this autumn in Wales.
“Given how vital Wales games are to the funding of our sport, it was only right that every option was explored.
“Obviously more important than that is the health of supporters, players and the nation as a whole and so, whilst making contingency plans, we have of course been conscious of following government advice closely every step of the way.
“We anticipate the two games will take place behind closed doors, however, if the ‘big picture’ changes, we would be open to exploring whether either game could serve as a test event for crowds.
“We hope that supporters will understand that we are duty bound to continue to explore all options before making a final call with respect to England and the Autumn Nations Cup final match.
“We are hopeful that it will be deemed safe for at least some, perhaps socially distanced and restricted, crowds to attend these matches and also remain open to the prospect of using the Parc y Scarlets fixtures as test events with limited attendances if possible.
“Whilst it is disappointing to play these matches without supporters we would like to thank all of those who follow, support and participate in Welsh rugby and our partners for their patience during these hugely challenging times.”
Scarlets chief operating officer Phil Morgan added: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to host these fixtures at Parc y Scarlets.
“We are hugely proud of the facilities we have here at the Parc and the events we have been able to host over the years. We are looking forward to welcoming Wayne and the team.”
