Fifita stood down by Wakefield for refusing to wear track and trace equipment

David Fifita has been stood down by Wakefield for refusing to wear track and trace equipment, club owner Michael Carter has confirmed.

In a statement, Carter revealed that Fifta removed the required GPS apparatus at half-time in last Saturday’s Challenge Cup game against Wakefield.

“After further discussions with the RFL and internally, we have stood down David Fifita for the foreseeable future,” Trinity’s owner said on the club website.

“Part of the Track and Trace protocols involve the use of GPS data. David has refused to wear one in the past, and despite being told that he must wear one, didn’t wear it against Catalans in the league game, and removed it at half time of the game last Saturday.

“As the person ultimately responsible for the health and wellbeing of every employee of the Club, we must err on the side of caution and remove David from the playing bubble.”

Carter also revealed that Jay Pitts, Alex Walker and Liam Kay have also stood down due to coronavirus related situations.

He added: “Late Tuesday night we were informed about the positive tests. The RFL then followed its protocols of Track & Trace and it was deemed that Jay Pitts and Alex Walker had to stand down and self isolate for 14 days from the day of the game.

“Subsequent to this, Liam Kay has had to stand down, due to a family situation where he has been told he must self-isolate and will not be available for 14 days.

“I must stress that ALL of our players and staff were tested on Monday and all were negative. We have re-tested the players on Thursday and await the results.

“Despite everything that’s been thrown at us over the last 3 weeks including late changes in fixtures, and having to stand down important members of our squad, we will be fit and ready to go on Sunday against Warrington.

“We, as a Club, are doing our utmost to ensure that not only are the players safe, but that the Game survives particularly in regards to the Sky commitment.”