CONFIRMED: New Covid strain, travel red list halt URC matches in SA

The South African leg of the United Rugby Championship has been officially postponed after the emergence of a new variant of COVID-19, saw the country suddenly placed on the UK and EU travel red list.

This sees the round six fixtures, which had the Lions taking on the Cardiff, Bulls up against Munster, Sharks playing Scarlets and Stormers hosting Zebre, this weekend all called off along with the round seven matches which were: Lions v Munster, Bulls v Scarlets, Sharks v Zebre and Stormers v Cardiff.

In a statement, organisers said that due to the sudden developments the matches would be rescheduled for later this season.

“The safety and well-being of our participating clubs’ players, coaches, support staff and match officials is the foremost priority and the URC is currently working with the four visiting clubs to facilitate their return as soon as possible,” the statement advised.

“This decision is based upon the latest guidance against non-essential travel to and from South Africa, the ban on direct flights to the UK and other home destinations and the potential hotel quarantines enforced upon those returning from South Africa.

“As has been the operating practice throughout the pandemic, the URC will continue engaging with our Medical Advisory Group, our union shareholders and respective governments to plan according to the latest health guidelines.

“A period of assessment will now be required to better understand the impact of these new travel restrictions and how to reschedule these games within the current season. Given the nature and speed of these developments URC will provide further updates at the appropriate time through official channels only.”