Ulster’s postponed away URC clash with the Sharks has been rescheduled for February 25th, the same day that Ireland take on Italy in the Six Nations in Rome.
The match was initially due to take place in Durban on October 22nd but was postponed after a number of Ulster’s squad took ill in South Africa. 29 players and 13 support staff suffered from an outbreak of “gastroenteritis infections”.
“Independent medical testing confirmed both E. coli and Norovirus in tested samples,” read an Ulster statement at the time.
The rescheduled clash will kick-off at Kings Park, Durban at 12pm Irish time, meaning it will finish just before Italy vs Ireland gets underway in Rome at 2.15pm.
The Counter Ruck: the rugby newsletter from The Irish Times
Ronan O’Gara puts aside Munster sentimentality as La Rochelle focus on much-needed result
Jack Crowley admits his ‘hands aren’t tied’ as he remains tight-lipped on future
Paul O’Connell’s Ireland coaching team confirmed for summer Tests with Georgia and Portugal
The trip to South Africa will take place the weekend after Ulster face Glasgow away and will be followed by a trip to Cardiff, giving the province three away consecutive away fixtures.
The Sharks currently sit in ninth on the URC table, nine points behind Ulster in fourth.