C-19 closes Leeds’ ground

LEEDS Rhinos have closed their training ground for a minimum five-day period after six players and one staff member tested positive for coronavirus.

The individuals are isolating at home for a minimum of 10 days, as well as anybody who has been identified through track and trace.

Leeds this week introduced daily lateral flow tests as an extra precaution and these will continue while their Kirkstall base is closed.

The decision to suspend training was made following consultation with the Rugby Football League, while Public Health England has been informed in line with government guidelines.

The Rhinos, who reported back for pre-season on January 4, hope to resume training next Tuesday but all players and staff will need to produce a negative PCR test before they return.

Leeds director of rugby Kevin Sinfield said: “Firstly, I would like to thank our players and staff for how they have adhered to the guidelines and rules in place since we returned to training.

“We are in a privileged position as an elite sport that we can continue to train. With that privilege comes a great deal of responsibility.

“Whilst this may be a short disruption to our pre-season plans, it is important that we look after the wellbeing of our people, their families and the local community.

“We’ve increased our biosecurity from last season and everyone is vigilant about ensuring we lessen the probabilities of spreading the virus.

“Because of our increased testing since New Year, it has become evident that, despite all our precautions, the virus has continued to spread within the group.

“We hope this short period will act as a fire break and enable us to move forward next week.” ■■Huddersfield have become the second Super League club to close their training facility following a number of positive coronavirus tests in recent days.

The infected players and any individuals identified as a contact trace are isolating at home for a minimum of 10 days.

Giants managing director Richard Thewlis said: “We have followed the guidelines laid down precisely and quickly which meant that following the lateral flow testing a threshold was hit whereby we immediately closed our facility and will take a five-day break again as per the guidelines.

“In that time the training centre will undergo a full deep clean and in order for a return to training to be sanctioned further testing will take place for all staff and players next week.”