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The Rugby Football Union have paid tribute to HRH Queen Elizabeth II following her passing aged 96, as Northampton Saints have confirmed the postponement of their match with Saracens.
Her Majesty, the former long-term patron of the sport’s governing body from her coronation in 1952 through 2016, died at her home in Balmoral the Royal Family confirmed on Thursday.
In a short statement posted to social media, the RFU expressed their condolences to the Royal Family.
It said: “On behalf of the rugby union community in England, all at the Rugby Football Union are very saddened to hear of the death of Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II.”
Northampton, meanwhile, announced shortly after the news broke that their Premiership Rugby Cup clash with Saracens set for Thursday evening would be postponed in light of the Queen’s passing.
The club said: “Tonight’s Premiership Rugby Cup match between Northampton Saints and Saracens has been postponed following the announcement of the death of Her Majesty the Queen.
“The thoughts of everyone at the Club are with the Royal Family at this time.”