England’s final Guinness Six Nations match against Italy in Rome on March 14 has been postponed due to the outbreak of coronavirus.

Tournament organisers faced the option of playing the game behind closed doors at the Stadio Olimpico or delaying it until later in the year and have chosen the latter option.

The accompanying Italy v England fixtures for the women and Under-20s have also been called off.

Sale face Harlequins in the final of the Premiership Rugby Cup – a development competition – on March 15 but with no other matches scheduled most of Jones’ squad will have the weekend off.

Rugby Football Union chief executive Bill Sweeney said: “We understand the decision to postpone all three England matches against Italy taken in the interests of overall public health.

“We know this will be disappointing for all the fans who were set to travel next weekend.

“We are committed to the successful delivery of three matches against Wales this weekend at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham Stoop and Kingsholm.

“Discussions with Six Nations are ongoing and we will update you with more information when we can.”