Ireland's Six Nations game against Italy given green light despite increase in Covid-19 restrictions

Ireland's postponed Six Nations game against Italy to be played on Saturday at Aviva Stadium has been given a clearance despite increase in the country's coronavirus restrictions.

Ireland has imposed some of Europe's toughest coronavirus restrictions as it went back into lockdown. The new measures will come into effect for six weeks on Wednesday making Ireland the first European country to reimpose lockdown after 1,031 new cases were reported on Monday.

However, the Irish government exempted elite sport from new coronavirus rules which means Ireland will be able to host Italy in what will be their fourth game in the tournament which will resume after it was suspended in March following the pandemic coronavirus crisis.

Ireland are also set to host Wales in their opening game of Autumn Nations Cup at Aviva Stadium on 13th November.

Andy Farrell's men have played just three games in the Six Nations tournament until now and are positioned fourth in the table. They will also face France in the final game of the tournament that will be played in Paris on 31st October.