Opening game of Super Rugby Pacific postponed due to Covid-19

The Super Rugby Pacific opening game Moana Pasifika and Blues scheduled to be played on Friday has been postponed due to Covid-19.

The Moana Pasifika squad has returned seven positive cases in the latest round of testing and will continue to remain isolated in their Queenstown hotel.

The decision to test on 10th February follows after a positively tested player, who trained with Moana Pasifika during their preparations ahead of their trip to Queenstown tested positive.

NZR General Manager Professional Rugby & Performance Chris Lendrum was disappointed with the postponement news and expressed full support to Moana Pasifika squad.

“Our thoughts are with the players who have tested positive, and our focus is on ensuring the have the full support of NZR as they deal with their situation.

"We also share the disappointment of the Moana Pasifika players, coaches, staff and fans. We know how hard they have worked and how eager they are to get out on the field.

“However, we also remain confident Moana Pasifika can get through this period of isolation and join the Super Rugby Pacific season and will be doing everything we can to support them over the coming weeks.”

All members of the other five New Zealand-based Super Rugby Pacific squads have tested negative for COVID-19 and will continue their preparations ahead of the competition.