Saracens have cancelled their proposed Heineken Cup match in Cape Town following a row over the venue for the game after Western Province ruled out Cape Town Stadium.

Now that all discussions between various stakeholders have been concluded, Saracens has decided the Heineken Cup match against Biarritz on Saturday, January 14 will be played not in Cape Town, but in London.

The innovative English champion club was eager to host the first Heineken Cup match ever played outside Europe, to stage a special, spectacular rugby event and to project brilliant images of Cape Town and European rugby around the world.

"However, we have no wish to be a catalyst for conflict between the City of Cape Town and the Western Province Rugby Union," Saracens said in a club statement.

"Saracens looks forward to playing a competitive match in Cape Town as soon as local circumstances allow."

Supporters who have bought tickets in South Africa will be fully refunded by Computicket, and Saracens will engage with UK-based supporters who have already booked air tickets and accommodation, and ensure they are appropriately compensated.