Last-gasp changes to bubble are tough

NRL players have expressed their frustration with the late changes in policy surrounding their families’ relocation into the south east Queensland hub after the eleventh hour switch placed the new arrivals under stricter protocols.

The Covid-19 bubble was thrown into chaos after 500 family members left Sydney on Wednesday, only to find the conditions for their 14-day lockdown had been altered at the last minute.

The new arrivals will now be confined to their floors, amid other restrictions, a situation that could force them to relocate back to Sydney.

“I haven’t got anyone who’s come up but hearing a bit of concern from the staff and other players who have kids, the way it’s gone down has been a bit disappointing,” said Rabbitohs backrower Jacob Host (pictured).

“But we’re trying to work through that, trying to make that as comfortable as possible because it’s a tough transition, especially when they were told certain things and had it change.”

Host maintained the players were committed to making the situation work and doing what they could to improve conditions.

Thirteen of the NRL’s 16 clubs relocated to south east Queensland last week in an effort to keep the competition going after the latest Covid outbreak in Sydney.

“Everyone is really getting around each other to make it as enjoyable as possible while having the job of playing football. It’s a bit of a balancing act but I think we’re doing a pretty good job so far,” Host said.

“It’s been a bit of an adjustment period, but the boys have really got around each other and have been supporting each other. Whatever we need to do to finish the season, the boys have all bought in.”

The Rabbitohs will welcome back Origin star Latrell Mitchell for Saturday afternoon’s clash with the Warriors on the Sunshine Coast.