Wednesday 19 October 2016 18:21, UK
Director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has confirmed Munster’s Champions Cup game against Glasgow Warriors will go ahead on Saturday at Thomond Park following the death of head coach Anthony Foley last weekend.
Former Ireland international Foley died suddenly last Saturday night at the age of 42 due to a heart problem as Munster prepared to face Racing 92 in Paris in their opening Champions Cup game.
That fixture was postponed as a mark of respect and there had been speculation that Saturday's match might be delayed as well.
But following an announcement earlier on Wednesday that Foley's funeral would take place on Friday, it was confirmed that Saturday's game in Limerick would go ahead as planned, in what promises to be an emotional 48 hours for Munster supporters.
Erasmus said: "From a Munster Rugby point of view we wish to acknowledge and thank those that have expressed their sympathies and thoughts with us during this time and thank everyone for their thoughtful considerations - it has been quite overwhelming and is testament to Axel himself that we are hearing from all corners of the world, across all sports and walks of life. The great man touched so many hearts.
"One's life is greater than any sport or sporting occasion, however Thomond Park held a special place in Axel's heart, and as difficult as it will be to play the next game, no matter the time, opposition and venue, we have an opportunity to play there this Saturday; that is something that is hugely important to all of us and cannot be easily dismissed.
"Playing in Thomond Park further ties us to his memory and will be a chance for all, including our supporters and the community, to feel that connection and closeness to him at this time."
European Professional Club Rugby has requested "a minute's silence or a minute's applause" at all Champion Cup and Challenge Cup games this weekend in Foley's memory.
A statement from European Professional Club Rugby said: "At this particularly difficult time following the passing of Anthony Foley, EPCR would like to once again convey its deepest sympathies to the Foley family and to everyone at Munster Rugby."
A funeral Mass for Foley will take place in St Flannan's Church in his home town of Killaloe, Co Clare, on Friday.
