Update.

The kick-off in the Castle Lager Lions Series match between the Cell C Sharks and The British & Irish Lions at Emirates Arline Park on Wednesday, 7 July, has been brought forward by an hour to 6pm Irish time.

The adjustment has been made in the interests of the global TV audience to avoid any overlap with the semi-finals of football’s Euro 2020 Championships, which kicks off at 8pm that night.

The move will absolutely delight sports fans who want to watch the Lions in action but not miss out on the Euros at the same time.

“We discussed the idea with broadcasters and they were all aligned that it made sense from the perspective of sports fans,” said Jurie Roux, CEO of SA Rugby.

“It is not the kind of adjustment that could have been made as easily had we had spectators in the venue, but as everyone will be watching from home we thought it sensible to give them all the options.”

Ben Calveley, managing director for The British & Irish Lions, said:

“This is a sensible decision made with the fans best interests at heart. We are fully supportive.”

The British & Irish Lions open their Tour with a match at the same venue against the Lions, kick off 5pm Irish time, on Saturday.