COVID-19 wreaks havoc in Europe
BREAKING NEWS: Two matches in Round Two of the Champions Cup have been cancelled as a result of a COVID-19 outbreak.
Titleholders Exeter Chiefs’ clash with Toulouse on Sunday has been cancelled, after several players and staff tested positive for COVID-19.
Glasgow – who Exeter crushed 42-0 in their opening pool match last weekend – have also called off their home game with Toulouse’s fellow French side Lyon on Saturday as many of their players are self-isolating as a result of the Chiefs news.
“EPCR [European Professional Club Rugby] has been informed that a number of Exeter Chiefs players and staff have tested positive for COVID-19,” read an EPCR statement.
“In accordance with public health guidelines, the club will not be able to send a matchday squad to fulfil its Champions Cup, Round Two fixture against Toulouse at Stade Ernest Wallon on Sunday [December 20].
“The Pool B match is therefore cancelled.”
The EPCR said that Glasgow felt compelled to cancel their game as they would be unable to select a competitive side.
“Glasgow Warriors have advised EPCR that many of its senior players are now self-isolating in accordance with public health guidelines,” read the statement.
“Consequently, the club is not in a position to field a matchday squad of the appropriate standard for its Champions Cup, Round Two fixture against Lyon at Scotstoun Stadium on Saturday (19 December).
“The Pool B match between Glasgow Warriors and Lyon is therefore also cancelled.”
The EPCR added it will convene a match result resolution committees to determine the results of the cancelled matches and the decisions of the committees will be communicated as soon as practicable.
