The British and Irish Lions have agreed to bring forward the kick-off time of their match against the Sharks next Wednesday to avoid a potential clash if England reach the semi-finals of Football’s European Championship.
The Lions are due to face the Sharks in their second tour game in Johannesburg’s Ellis Park, with a kick-off time of 7pm (BST) but it is understood the game will now be brought forward by one hour to enable sports fans to watch both games. The Euros semi-final takes place at 8pm.
Telegraph Sport understands that talks between the Lions, SA Rugby and host broadcasters Sky Sports and Super Sports in South Africa began after England’s 2-0 victory over Germany in the last 16 on Tuesday night.
As there is major interest in the Euros here in South Africa, it is thought that they have all agreed to bring the game forward in that scenario.
England’s football team is due to play the Ukraine on Saturday night in the quarter-finals following their victory over Germany on Tuesday night.
“It’s a decision with the fans best interests at heart; it ensures everyone can watch both games,” said an insider.
Given that the matches are all being played behind closed doors in South Africa because of lockdown restrictions, which were elevated to ‘level four’ last Sunday because of the huge rise in the rate of infections in the country, it is relatively simple to move the kick-off times and it involves few logistical changes.
What TV channel is the match on?
Live coverage of the Lions tour is on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Rugby. All three Lions Tests against South Africa will be on Channel 4, while All4 will show highlights of ALL the Lions Tour matches.
Lions Tour 2021 full fixtures
Here’s the latest schedule, all BST: