Micky Steele-Bodger, President of the Barbarians, said: "Due to the clash with football fixtures and the Millennium Stadium commitment with the Football Association we have to move our fixture."

He added: "Where better than Bristol and another famous sporting venue - Ashton Gate. This year therefore, we are looking forward to entertaining the Welsh national team and their loyal supporters at Ashton Gate. Judging by the performance of Wales in the Rugby World Cup we are in for quite a match!"

A mixture of international players from various countries have already accepted invitations to play for the Baa-baas - they include Scott Quinnell (Wales), Percy Montgomery (South Africa), Thomas Castaignède (France), Taine Randell (New Zealand), Raphael Ibanez (France) and Corné Krige (South Africa).

Scott Quinnell, the former captain of Wales, remarked: "I’m very excited at the prospect of wearing the eminent Black and White shirt again.

"It has always been an honour, but this year will be such a unique experience not only playing amongst other world class players, but against my national side too."

2004 Barbarians tour fixtures:

v Scotland XV: May 2, 2004, Murrayfield @ 15.00v Wales XV: May 26, 2004, Bristol City F.C @ 19.30v England XV: May 30, 2004, Twickenham @ 15.00

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