The much-anticipated Rugby World Cup clash between England and France in Yokohama on Saturday has been cancelled due to the approach of Super Typhoon Hagibis, according to British and local media reports.
The first-ever cancellation of a match in the tournament's history is set to be announced by organisers at 2:00pm AEDT.
The match was set to decide the outcome of Pool C, and consequently Australia's quarter-final opponents.
Hagibis is expected to hit western and eastern Japan between Saturday and Sunday, the Japan Meteorological Agency said.
The Pacific side of western and eastern Japan may see torrential rains from Friday until the typhoon passes, and the agency warned of floods caused by the high waves and tides.
Tournament rules state that games cancelled due to weather will be registered as 0-0 draws, meaning France (13 points) will lose the opportunity to leapfrog England (15 points) to win the group.
With Australia almost certain to finish second in Pool D, the Wallabies' quarter-final opponents will be England, while France will play Wales.
The Wallabies are expected to beat Georgia in Shizuoka on Friday night, in a game that won't be affected by the typhoon.
Japanese Grand Prix also under threat
The typhoon could also affect the Formula One Japanese Grand Prix.
Typhoons have hit the race at the Suzuka circuit, about 375 kilometres west of Tokyo, in the past, forcing qualifying to be held on Sunday morning instead of Saturday.
Monday is also a national holiday in Japan meaning Sunday's race could potentially be pushed back a day.
Practice for the Japanese GP is scheduled for Friday, with qualifying set for Saturday.
More to come.
ABC/AAP
