Players were ushered from the pitch immediately after the final whistle after police were called with around half an hour of the match remaining

Northamptonshire Police are investigating threats made via social media after Northampton Saints and Cardiff Rugby players were ordered off the pitch immediately after their Champions Cup clash.

Officers were called to DPD Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens in Northampton at around 7pm on Sunday, October 18, following the threats during the second-half, with enquiries into the incident ongoing.

Players from both teams were ushered down the tunnel after the final whistle as a precaution, while the departure of supporters from the stadium was carefully monitored.

A Northamptonshire Police spokeswoman said: “Police officers were called to the Franklin's Gardens Stadium in Weedon Road, Northampton, yesterday (October 18) at about 7pm, following threats made via social media.

“As a precautionary measure, players from both teams left the field of play immediately following the final whistle.

“Enquiries into the incident remain ongoing and we are working closely with both the Saints and our policing partners on the investigation.”

The exact nature of the social media threats has not been disclosed.

Northampton Saints beat Cardiff Rugby 28-12 in their Investec Champions Cup opener. The home club confirmed after the match that it was working closely with police following the security incident.

A Saints statement read: “Northampton Saints can confirm that there was a security incident during the second half of this evening’s match against Cardiff Rugby.

"As a precautionary measure, players from both teams left the field of play immediately following the final whistle.

"The departure of supporters from the stadium was carefully monitored, and the club continues to work closely with Northamptonshire Police.

"The safety and wellbeing of everyone in attendance at Saints matches remains our highest priority, and we would like to thank supporters for their cooperation and understanding.”

Cardiff Rugby statement

Cardiff Rugby also apologised to travelling supporters after players and staff, who normally mingle with fans, were moved down the tunnel following the match.

The club said: “Our sincerest apologies to travelling supporters, players and staff were moved down the tunnel as quickly as possible after the full-time whistle due to a safety issue.

“Thank you for your fantastic support throughout tonight's match, and we'll see you at the Arms Park next Friday.”