"The potential health risks and uncertainty posed by the global pandemic brought about by the COVID-19 virus are simply too great to proceed with the event as originally scheduled", read a World Lacrosse statement.

The tournament was due to take place at the University of Limerick from July 9 to 18.

The World Lacrosse General Assembly was also due to be held in the in the Irish city later in July, but will no longer go ahead as planned.

"World Lacrosse is currently exploring alternatives for the annual meeting of its membership, but there will be a General Assembly in 2020", the statement added.

Organisers and World Lacrosse hope to announce future plans for the tournament in April.

Continental federations and national governing bodies will be taking part in virtual meetings this week to discuss what comes next, according to World Lacrosse.

There have been more than 1,800 COVID-19 cases in Ireland and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has warned intensive care units will soon reach capacity.

Globally, more than 25,000 people have passed away and there are strict travel restrictions in place in many nations, meaning most sport has been brought to a halt.