Northampton Saints has today been notified by Wasps that the Coventry-based club have cancelled their participation in Monday night’s Premiership Rugby Shield game at Franklin’s Gardens owing to a “lack of front row resources.”
The Wanderers will instead play a friendly match against London Irish. Gates to Franklin’s Gardens open at 6.30pm with kick-off scheduled for 7.30pm. The game is free to Season Ticket Holders; £5 for adults and £2 for under-16s. Car parks A, B and C situated off Ross Road will be open and free of charge.
“We are disappointed that Wasps are not able to raise a side for this fixture, but pleased we have been able to arrange a match against London Irish at the last minute,” said Mark Darbon, chief executive at Northampton Saints.
“We are very grateful to Declan Kidney and everyone at the Exiles for agreeing to play this fixture which enables our playing squad to get much needed game time.
“As winners of the competition for previous two seasons the Premiership Rugby Shield is a tournament we take seriously and our home fixtures at Franklin’s Gardens are well attended by our supporters.
“We are frustrated that this is the second occasion that Wasps have had to cancel a fixture against the Wanderers in the last 12 months, particularly as this was the first of our fixtures to be broadcast live on FreeSports.”