Premiership match called off after Covid outbreak

NEWS: Gloucester have cancelled Saturday’s English Premiership match against Bath and called off all training after a Covid-19 outbreak at the club.

Following a report of Covid-19 symptoms on Sunday, Gloucester halted training.

All players were asked to self-isolate until further testing could be arranged.

“Gloucester Rugby have taken the decision to stop all training following a Covid-19 outbreak within the camp,” a club statement said on Tuesday.

“Therefore, our game with Bath Rugby this weekend has been called off.

“We are wishing all of our players and staff affected by this outbreak a speedy recovery.”

Under Premiership regulations, the West Country derby with Bath will be cancelled and a panel will determine the allocation of points.

Gloucester currently sit 10th in the Premiership table, within two points of the top eight.

Teams in the top eight qualify for next season’s European Champions Cup, so failing to play their match could be a big blow.

A Premiership Rugby spokesperson said: “Our priority is the health and safety of everyone involved with Gloucester Rugby and Bath Rugby and we will give the clubs any support they need. We wish everyone affected a full and speedy recovery.

“Neither Premiership Rugby nor the club will be naming any of the players or staff involved and we’d ask everyone to respect their privacy.”