BREAKING NEWS: The Lions tour of South Africa is hit by a Covid outbreak as two touring players and two staff go into isolation after a member of management tests positive – but tonight’s clash with the Sharks WILL go ahead
- A member of British and Irish Lions management has tested positive for Covid-19
- Two players and two other staff members are having to isolate as close contacts
- The Lions are due to play South African franchise the Sharks tonight
- That match will go ahead but will be delayed by an hour – subject to the Lions squad undergoing PCR tests this afternoon to ensure the fixture can be playedÂ
The British & Irish Lions camp has been struck by a Covid outbreak after a member of the management team tested positive on Wednesday morning.
Four close contacts – including two players and two members of staff – have subsequently been placed into self isolation, throwing further disruption onto the chaotic tour.
Wednesday night’s fixture against the Sharks is still due to go ahead, provided a subsequent round of PCR testing returns negative tests on Wednesday afternoon.
However, the kick-off time has been shifted back an hour, resulting in a clash with England’s Euro 2020 quarter-final, to allow time for test results.
‘We have followed all necessary precautions since the start of the Tour, which included regular testing and rigorous COVID-19 counter measure planning and protocols,’ said Ben Calveley, Managing Director for the British & Irish Lions.
The British and Irish Lions camp has been rocked by news that one staff member has Covid-19
It comes as a huge disruption to Lions head coach Warren Gatland’s plans vs the Sharks
‘Our priority is to ensure the health and safety of the entire touring party, which is why we quickly isolated the players and staff upon receiving the news of the positive result.
‘Everyone has subsequently been lateral flow and PCR tested. The Medical Advisory Group await the results of the PCR testing in order to make a decision on tonight’s game.
‘The five individuals effected will be monitored closely during isolation and receive the best possible medical attention as we await the results of their PCR tests.
‘Further updates will follow in due course.’
The Lions squad (pictured on Tuesday) have been preparing to face the Sharks later tonight