Match between Maori All Blacks and Asia Pacific Dragons cancelled due to Sports Hub pitch issues

ALL content used in this not-for-profit blog remain the property of their respective owners.
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/sport/rugby-match-at-national/1427226.html

Sports Hub on Tuesday (Oct 21) confirmed that the rugby match between the Maori All Blacks and Asia Pacific Dragons, scheduled to be played on Nov 15, has been cancelled.

Channel NewsAsia understands the call to cancel was initially made by the New Zealand Rugby Union due to safety concerns over the pitch, which was visibly sandy and patchy during a recent friendly between Brazil and Japan's football teams.

In a statement posted on its website on Tuesday, New Zealand Rugby General Manager in Planning and Operations Nigel Cass said the safety of the players is "paramount" and they were unable to get assurances needed that the pitch was playable.

"We think Singapore has huge potential for rugby and we remain very keen to play our part in developing the game there. We are certainly committed to coming back at some point to play this important match and, in the meantime, hope to take some players there after Japan to undertake community and other activities," he said.

"We feel somewhat let down that this has happened at this late stage," said Mr Cass.

SportsHub says ticket holders will be allowed a full refund, including a pre-sold parking ticket if purchased. Refunds will be available from Oct 23 until 8pm on Nov 16. Those who need more information can call the Sports Hub Tix Hotline at +65 6333 5000 or +65 3158 7888, or email enquiry@sportshubtix.com.

The S$1.3 billion National Stadium opened to much fanfare in June, but the state of its pitch has been criticised by international players and coaches as well as local football stars in recent weeks.