Ulster's Rainbow Cup rugby match against Scarlets has been cancelled after four of the northern province's squad tested positive for COVID-19.

The players are asymptomatic and are currently self-isolating. Ulster have suspended training for their senior and academy teams and all staff and players will be tested for coronavirus tomorrow.

Saturday's match had been due to be played in front of 500 fans at Kingspan Stadium as part of the phased return of supporters in Northern Ireland.

As there are no free weekends between now and the end of the Rainbow Cup, the game can’t be re-fixed and Scarlets will be awarded four-points.

David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

“We appreciate the news that our upcoming fixture is cancelled will be deeply disappointing for our supporters, particularly those who were due to join us at Kingspan Stadium on Saturday, but we are in complete agreement that the collective decision to cancel the match is the correct one," said Ulster CEO Jonny Petrie said.

“Our priority continues to be the health and safety of our players and staff, as well as the wider community, so we will continue to work closely, together with the IRFU, with the Public Health Agency to ensure that we follow the necessary public health advice, as we provide support to the individuals involved.”

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