Organisers say "preparations are going ahead at full pace" for Wales' Test match against South Africa in Washington DC on June 2.

It has been reported that the company staging the game - Rugby International Marketing (RIM) - had been hit by internal and financial issues, while ticket sales were also said to be poor.

Wales are due to face South Africa at the RFK Stadium before embarking on a two-Test tour to Argentina.

In a statement released by the Welsh Rugby Union, RIM board member Mark Lambourne said: "The ticket sales are currently tracking, with over 12,000 sold to date, and it is still well over a month until Wales and South Africa meet at the RFK Stadium in Washington DC.

"Published USA Rugby minutes from last month transcribe the fact that a healthy debate was had about the game, with directors entirely within their rights to discuss the benefits for USA Rugby.

"For the elimination of any doubt, the fixture was since officially sanctioned and preparations are going ahead at full pace.

"We are all very much looking forward to welcoming Wales and the Springboks to Washington DC on June 2."

A WRU spokesperson added: "We are looking forward to playing South Africa in Washington DC on June 2 as part of our summer tour.

"Beyond the contracted game, we have a number of local activities planned during our week in the US, and we are confident the team will be great ambassadors for Welsh rugby."

Wales head coach Warren Gatland looks set to rest some of his senior internationals for the June games, with captain Alun Wyn Jones and number eight Taulupe Faletau among those who could sit out the three Tests.

They take on the Pumas in San Juan on Saturday, June 9 and then meet again seven days later in Santa Fe.

Wales have played Argentina 16 times, winning 11 and losing five, edging their last encounter 24-20 in Cardiff in November 2016.

They have beaten the Boks in the last two autumn series after being denied late on in the World Cup quarter-final at Twickenham in 2015.

l The British and Irish Lions are to award ceremonial caps for the first time.

A total of 419 living Lions players and next of kin of 416 deceased Lions will receive a one-off, hand-stitched cap that bears a unique playing number awarded only to players who have played competitively.

Wales star Sam Warburton, who captained the Lions in Australia five years ago and to New Zealand last summer, hailed the move.

"It feels like the missing piece of the jigsaw to add your Lions cap to go with your others, your international and your club caps," he said.

"This makes it all come flooding back, and makes you realise how prestigious a thing it is to play for the Lions."

Ronnie Dawson, the Lions' oldest living captain, added: "Playing for your country is the biggest thing that can happen to you as a young player, but if you are fortunate enough to go on and play for the Lions, it's extreme.

"It is a wonderful experience in every way. So to receive a cap marking that really completes the series."

In addition to the cap, Lions players or next of kin will receive a recognition letter from chairman Tom Grace and a copy of the team photograph from their tours.