Super Rugby Aotearoa final round in doubt following new outbreak of Covid-19

The final round of Super Rugby Aotearoa is under doubt after there has been a new outbreak of coronavirus in New Zealand.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced on Tuesday that Auckland will go under lockdown from 11th August to 14th with level three restrictions after four new cases emerged in the city. The decision whether to extend the restrictions after Friday will be taken upon a review. The rest of the country will be on level two restrictions.

Following the announcement, Blues have sent their players back home and will have just Saturday to regroup if the lockdown is lifted on Friday ahead of their high profile clash against champions Crusaders at Eden Park on Sunday.

The news broke a day later after the Blues announced that all 43,236 tickets were sold for the final game of the season.

“We are busy this morning readying our facility for shutdown as per level 3 requirements, cleaning gym equipment which will be dispersed around players so they can continue to train and prepare for our final game,” the Blues said in a statement.

“NZR is in close and constant dialogue with Government and we will pass on more information when we have it.

“We are working through all the numerous scenarios and will probably be in a better position to comment with more clarity tomorrow (Thursday).”

The final round will also see Highlanders and Hurricanes facing each other on 15th August at Forsyth Barr Stadium.