The game, which came perilously close to being cancelled for the first time since 1976 because many overseas players were committed to games in Europe, yesterday was officially given the go-ahead for Sunday, April 3.

Internationals from Ireland, England, Scotland, Canada and France have been confirmed following frantic behind-the-scenes activity by organiser John Kane.

One Irish player returning is Simon Geoghegan, who turned the second half of last year's game into his own one-man show, when the Bermuda Irish defeated Bermuda Invitational 64-49 in the highest-scoring game in Classic history.

Geoghegan also scored a brilliant try for Ireland in their surprise 13-12 victory over England in the Five Nations Championship last month.

"We got after a number of the players,'' said Kane yesterday, obviously pleased the game will be played.

Another try scorer in the Five Nations, Tim Rodber of England, will also play.

Other notables will be Scott Hastings, who won his 50th international cap for Scotland last Saturday against France, and Craig Schalmers, who has played 34 times for his country at out-half.

Ireland will also be sending Niall Francis, their hulking second row forward, and full-back Jim Staples.

Canada will be represented for the first time with Gareth Rees, who kicked his country to victory over Wales last November.

France's lone representative will be Phillipe Daubas, a member of the French Barbarians.

The game will take place at 3 p.m. at National Sports Club.