FIH is hoping to reschedule the matches between China and Belgium ©FIH

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has postponed the women's Pro League matches between China and Belgium scheduled for February 8 and 9, due to the coronavirus crisis.

With uncertainty surrounding many sporting events due to the outbreak, FIH consulted with the Hockey Associations of China and Belgium, and decided that both matches will not be played.

FIH is engaging with both Hockey Associations of China and Belgium to look jointly at all potential options to play these matches at a later date, if possible.

In terms of future hockey matches in China, FIH is monitoring the situation closely, in consultation with the World Health Organization.

Belgium and China will not be facing off next weekend, due to the coronavirus ©Getty Images
Belgium and China will not be facing off next weekend, due to the coronavirus ©Getty Images

The Chinese Hockey Association is also in regular contact with local authorities.  

The virus is causing chaos to the sporting calendar in China.

A first Winter X Games event was postponed today, while, the Chinese women's football team is being kept in isolation in Brisbane over concerns about the spread of the virus.

Other casualties in the past 24 hours included the first official Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics Alpine skiing test event.