Storm Kathleen forces switch of venue for Edinburgh v Bayonne

The game will still kick-off at 8pm and all tickets remain valid but supporters will be housed in the east stand on an unreserved, general admission basis. Fans can gain entry through the Roseburn Street turnstiles opposite the Murrayfield tram stop (general turnstiles open at 6.30pm, hospitality opens at 6pm).

Murrayfield offers far better protection against the elements than Hive Stadium and after Scottish Rugby health and safety officials contacted the MET Office to discuss the impact of the yellow warning for the wind, it was announced that the match would be moved.

The Hive Stadium fanzone will also be closed but the Thistle Suite Clubhouse, President Suite (Capital Kitchen) and club shop will all be open as normal.

Douglas Struth, the Edinburgh Rugby managing director, said: “The safety of our fans, players, and people is paramount. Unfortunately, Storm Kathleen and the worsening weather forecast has meant that the only way to now play this match safely and securely is in the bigger main bowl at Scottish Gas Murrayfield. We’re obviously very disappointed not to be playing in our home, Hive Stadium, but I hope that people will understand.

“We know our fans love Hive Stadium, and the atmosphere we’ve built there over the past two seasons is second to none, but I’d encourage all our supporters to bring that same passion and energy to the main bowl this evening.

“There is still a lot of work to be done today to make this move happen, and there will inevitably be some compromises from our normal matchday experience.

“I’d like to thank our fans and our visitors from Bayonne in advance for their patience and understanding in that regard, as we try to make this switch as seamless as possible. Finally, to those fans coming this evening, please plan well ahead, take care, and travel safely.”