Rugby:Ireland's Six Nations clash with France tonight has been called off at the last minute due to concerns over the pitch at the Stade de France. The playing surface had passed an earlier inspection but referee Dave Pearson took the decision to postpone the match at 8.45pm local time, some 15 minutes before kick-off.

The pitch, which lacks under-soil heating, had been maintained at three degrees under covers, which were removed an hour and a half before the kick-off. With temperatures in the French capital due to drop as low as minus 10, and areas of the pitch already frozen, the game will now be rescheduled.

“Unfortunately the referee has deemed the pitch is too dangerous, it’s dangerous to play on it,” Six Nations communications officer Christine Connolly announced to dismayed fans in the Stade de France.

No date has been confirmed as yet of the re-fixture although it is thought Friday, March 2nd is an option.

Ireland coach Declan Kidney admitted the players couldn’t quite believe the decision was taken when it was but stressed concerns over safety could not be ignored.

“You want to play with your heart but sometimes your head overrules that,” he said.

“We can’t do anything apart from fully prepare for the game, the lads are very pumped up inside in the changing room, it’s going to be a new experience for some of them to try and settle down and get rid of all the energy.

"I think the referee has made the right decision. I believe the game will be rearranged but whether it's next week which is a real tight ask or later is for the Six Nations to decide.

“I'm sure they're working on it as we speak so I would expect to hear maybe some time Monday. International rugby isn't something where you turn up and go for a friendly jog around. But they're great lads and they'll settle down again."