NZRL puts safety before World Cup

WELLINGTON: The New Zealand Rugby League and the Australian Rugby League Commission have withdrawn their teams from this year’s World Cup in England.

The NZRL and ARLC have informed organisers the Kiwis and Kangaroos will not compete at the tournament because of player welfare and safety concerns.

Both parties had requested the World Cup be postponed until next year to minimise risk of players contracting Covid19 and ensure the best outcome for player wellbeing.

They have made the decision to withdraw after considering the risk of Covid19 infection in the United Kingdom, the worsening environment in Australia and the time a majority of NRL players will spend away from home under strict biosecurity conditions.

The NZRL and ARLC have resolved, that in the present environment the risks to athletes and officials travelling to the UK to participate in the tournament this year are too great.

NZRL CEO Greg Peters said the decision to withdraw was in the best interests of players and officials.

‘‘The safety and wellbeing of our people is the main priority, and unfortunately, that cannot be guaranteed to our satisfaction,’’ he said.

‘‘There are stark differences between how the pandemic is being managed in the UK compared to Australasia and recent developments have highlighted how quickly things can change.

‘‘The tournament organisers have moved heaven and earth to make this work, so it is not an easy decision, but the Covid19 situation in the UK shows no sign of improving, and it’s simply too unsafe to send teams and staff over.

‘‘We understand how disappointing this is for fans and those involved. However, player and staff safety remains paramount.

ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys said player wellbeing and safety must come first.

‘‘We have again requested the IRL and Rugby League World Cup consider postponing the event until

2022 to enable all players to participate.’’ — RNZ