Tokyo, Oct 10 (ONA) --- England against France on Saturday

has been called off because of Typhoon Hagibis, but Rugby World

Cup organisers hope Scotland against Japan can go ahead as

planned on Sunday.

            The typhoon, described as the biggest of the year, is set to

wreak havoc in Tokyo and surrounding areas.

          Ireland's match with Samoa in Fukuoka is expected to go ahead

as scheduled.

"The decision to cancel matches has not been taken lightly," said

tournament director Alan Gilpin.

"It has been made with the best interest of team, public, and

tournament volunteer safety as a priority based on expert advice."

          The Pool B match between New Zealand and Italy in Toyota on

Saturday has also been cancelled, denying Italy their outside chance

of qualifying.

           If the Scotland-Japan match was to be called off, under

tournament rules Gregor Townsend's side are likely be knocked out of

the World Cup.

            Cancelled matches see both teams awarded two points as part

of a 0-0 draw.

          It means England progress as winners of Pool C, two points

ahead of France in second place, and face a probable quarter-final

against Australia, with Wales expected to top Pool D and therefore play

the French.

               France would have the advantage over Wales of a two-week

rest, compared to one week, the BBC sport reported.

--- Ends/KH