The Japan Rugby Football Union has confirmed its decision to cancel the remainder of the Top League season  in response to the global coronavirus pandemic.

The JRFU initially suspended the Japanese Top League competition for three weeks, but given the growing fears surrounding the deadly virus globally, authorities have now called off the tournament.

In a statement, the JRFU said it is still considering making a decision as to which four teams will play in the All-Japan Championship [normally it is the Top League semi-finalists] scheduled to take place in May.

But according to veteran rugby journalist Rich Freeman, who is based in Japan, it is highly unlikely that the All-Japan Championship will go ahead given that so many players and coaches have returned to their home countries and won’t be able to return to Japan because of the various international travel bans in place.

JRFU confirm Top League has been cancelled.

Still considering making decision as to which 4 teams will play in All-Japan C’ship, which is scheduled to be held from May 23.

But given so many coaches/players overseas and can’t get back seems unlikely that will go ahead.#rugbyjp pic.twitter.com/ZJf8dcgv7w

— Rich Freeman (@FreemanrugbyJPN) March 23, 2020

Photo: Atsushi Tomura/Getty Images