Scotland knocked off top spot as France are awarded 28-0 win over Fiji

France have been catapulted above Scotland into first place in Group B of the Autumn Nations Cup after organisers awarded them a 28-0 win over Fiji.

France have been awarded a bonus-point win over Fiji,

The French were due to play the South Sea Islanders on Sunday but the match was cancelled following a spate of positive tests in the Fijian camp.

With no free dates on which to reschedule the match, the decision was taken to award France a bonus-point 28-0 win in accordance with the competition rules.

Fabien Galthie’s side now go above Scotland on points difference. The two sides will meet at BT Murrayfield on Sunday.

The Scots opened their Nations Cup campaign with a 28-17 bonus point win over Italy in Florence. Gregor Townsend’s side are due to play Fiji in Edinburgh on 28 November in their final Group B match.

Fiji are scheduled to meet Italy this weekend.

A statement from the Autumn Nations Cup said: “Following last week’s cancellation of the France v Fiji match, the tournament organisers of the Autumn Nations Cup have confirmed a decision to award a 28-0 victory with Bonus Point to France.

"Whilst no fault has been apportioned to Fiji Rugby, the competition rules provide that if a team is primarily responsible for a match not taking place, a 28-0 victory will be awarded to the opposition that could have played the match.

“We wish the affected Fiji players well as they continue their recovery and are working closely with the Fiji team, to ensure that they are able to field a competitive team against Italy.”

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