Leeds clash with Catalans in serious doubt after more positive cases

Leeds Rhinos have confirmed that, following a full round of PCR testing for the players and backroom staff, a further four positive tests have been recorded to add to the previous two confirmed on Tuesday.   

Because of the six positive Covid 19 cases over the last five days, the club has worked closely with the RFL’s Multiple Case Group (MCG) to discuss the impact and next steps, in line with the Multiple Case Framework.

As a result, the Multiple Case Group have determined that the Rhinos must shutdown for a 5-day period, with a further round of PCR testing on Monday 14th June, five days following last training session together. Close contacts and positive cases must remain in full isolation as per government guidelines. The pre-cautions taken earlier this week with training cancelled until the group had completed a programme of PCR tests has meant that no more players are in self isolation in addition the original group announced on Tuesday. At present, there are six positive Covid 19 cases in the playing squad with a further seven in self isolation having been identified as close contacts through track and trace.

The rationale for this decision is to ensure that any trace of the virus is eradicated prior to return to the training ground. It is hoped that with the stand-down period being observed all cases will be picked up during this period and a return following gives a clear restart. This process will remain under review depending on the test results over the next five days.

The six positive players must complete their isolation periods and be able to complete all daily living activities without excessive fatigue and/or breathlessness and walk a minimum of 500m on the flat without getting breathless.  The six players will each need to then complete the Covid-19 Graduated Return to Training (C19-GRTP) and follow the six stages of the RFL’s COVID-19 Graduated Return to Play (C19-GRTP) with each stage the equivalent to a minimum of 24 hours before they are declared fit and available for selection.