2019 Rugby World Cup: Namibia v Canada – Cancelled

Typhoon Hagibis causes cancellation of match due to be played in Kamaishi

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2019 Rugby World Cup: Namibia v Canada

This Pool B match between Namibia and Canada has been cancelled on safety grounds due to Typhoon Hagibis.

These two sides were both chasing their first wins at Japan 2019 – Namibia their first-ever World Cup victory – but with an evacuation order still in operation in the Kamaishi area the match has been called off.

A statement from tournament organisers said: “Kamaishi is situated in a highly mountainous area, including mountains directly behind the main stand of the stadium. There have been landslides and flooding in the vicinity of the stadium and along access roads to the venue following torrential rain throughout the night.”

The result will now be classed as a 0-0 draw with both teams awarded two match points.

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The typhoon hit the Kamaishi area later than Tokyo/Yokohama because it is situated further north on the island of Honshu.

The Kamaishi Recovery Memorial Stadium was built to remember those who lost their lives in the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, and staged Uruguay’s memorable win over Fiji earlier in the tournament. The Namibia-Canada game, which was due to kick off at 12.15am local time (4.15am UK & Ireland time), would have been its second match of the World Cup.

World Rugby Chief Operating Officer and Tournament Director Alan Gilpin said: “The safety of teams, fans, volunteers and workforce is our number one priority. Following strong direction from the Prefecture of Iwate and the City of Kamaishi, we were left with no option but to cancel the match on safety grounds.

“Our hearts go out to the teams and also their fans, but also the people of Kamaishi, who have been incredible during what has been a special journey in recent years. Nobody will be more disappointed than them, but also nobody would have better empathy with the decision.”

Despite the disappointment of having their final match cancelled, Canada players and staff went to help with the recovery efforts in the area following the typhoon…

Head-to-head

Played – 2

Namibia wins – 0

Canada wins – 2

Most recent meeting – Namibia 13-17 Canada (7 November 2014)

Despite a try from Jacques Burger, Namibia lost narrowly to Canada in Colwyn Bay in Wales. Gordon McRorie kicked 12 points and Nanyak Dala got a try for Canada.

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