Rugby Australia have announced that all Vodacom Super Rugby matches based in Australia will be played behind closed doors from round eight onwards.
This weekend’s Super Rugby action will see three games take place in Australia, including a Brisbane-based doubleheader on Saturday which will pit the Sunwolves up against the Crusaders before the Reds take on the Vodacom Bulls. On Sunday, the Brumbies are at home to the Waratahs in an Australian derby.
In the latest update surrounding the outbreak of coronavirus, Rugby Australia have announced that games beyond this weekend’s seventh-round will take place in empty stadiums.
It means that next weekend’s match between the Waratahs and Bulls in Sydney will take place behind closed doors.
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‘This is a position that no one in our game wanted to be in, but we have made this decision in line with the Government response to this ongoing global health issue and in the best interests of our players, members and fans,’ RA CEO Raelene Castle said.
‘The Prime Minister made it clear in his address to the media this afternoon that the Government’s advice is a staged response to this issue and that by Monday the next stage of their response is to advise against non-essential large gatherings.
‘We are confident from this advice that there is no significant or imminent health risk to our athletes or fans for the weekend’s matches. At all times, any decision we make is with the health and welfare of those people front of mind.
‘As this situation is evolving constantly, we will continue to review our position on a daily basis’
The Jaguares have followed a similar procedure as their game against the Highlanders on Sunday will also be played behind closed doors. Meanwhile, New Zealand Rugby have confirmed that games are going ahead as planned.
READ: NZ-based Super Rugby games to continue in round 7
Meanwhile, the Welsh Rugby Union have confirmed that the Six Nations battle against Scotland will go ahead at the Principality Stadium on Saturday.
‘WRU representatives have been in dialogue with Welsh Assembly Government minister for Health and Social Services Vaughan Gething, who provided much needed clarity on the Cobra meeting held yesterday,’ a statement read.
‘Throughout the WRU Board have followed the scientific advice of government, Public Health Wales and medical experts and determined that any game would be held or postponed based on that advice.
‘Enhanced facilities for hand washing and sanitisation will be available at the stadium and there are measures in place to manage any issues with attendees on the day. In addition supporters are urged to follow the advice that is widely available on government websites in relation to the virus.’
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