Irish provinces Leinster and Munster have joined the English clubs in making their players unavailable to play for the Barbarians against World Cup winners South Africa.
The Springboks conclude a short tour with a clash against the Baa-Baas on December 1 but the clubs are unwilling to release players due to other commitments.
The decision means Ireland centre Brian ODriscoll will not captain the invitational side as had been planned.
A joint statement from the provinces read: Contrary to media reports, neither Brian ODriscoll nor Paul OConnell nor any of the selected squads from the Leinster or Munster panels will be available for the upcoming Barbarians match against South Africa.