The Highlanders vs Crusaders fixture has been cancelled in response to Friday’s terrorist attacks in Christchurch.

Sanzaar confirmed the news on Saturday. As per tournament rules, the decision to cancel a match is made by the Sanzaar executive committee following consultation with key stakeholders. Ultimately the decision is made to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, but to also maintain the integrity of the sport.

‘Sanzaar does not take this decision lightly, but after consulting widely with key stakeholders, the Sanzaar executive committee has taken the necessary step to cancel the scheduled fixture as a mark of respect for the events that have occurred in Christchurch, and in the best interests of the welfare of the players and staff of the Highlanders and Crusaders,’ said chairman Brent Impey.

Sanzaar policy states that in the event of a match cancellation due to force majeure, the match will be officially declared a draw and both teams will receive two competition points.

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