Kick-off in the Lions series match between the Sharks and British & Irish Lions at Ellis Park next Wednesday has been brought forward by an hour.

The adjustment, which moves the kick-off time from 8pm to 7pm, has been made in the interests of the global TV audience to avoid any overlap with the semi-finals of football’s Euro 2020 championship.

“We discussed the idea with broadcasters and they were all aligned that it made sense from the perspective of sports fans,” said Jurie Roux, CEO of SA Rugby.

“It is not the kind of adjustment that could have been made as easily had we had spectators in the venue, but as everyone will be watching from home we thought it sensible to give them all the options.”

Ben Calveley, managing director of the British & Irish Lions, said: “This is a sensible decision made with the fans’ best interests at heart. We are fully supportive.”

The British & Irish Lions open their tour with a match at the same venue against the Lions, with kick-off at 6pm on Saturday.

Photo: Billy Stickland/INPHO