In the face of Covid-19, New Zealand postpones all rugby tournament matches

La Nouvelle-Zélande a décidé ce vendridi de se retirer du Rugby Championship jusqu’à ce que de nouvelles dates soient trouvées pour les cinq matches qu’il lui reste à disputer, dans un contexte de rebond de la pandémie de coronavirus du côt ‘Southern Hemisphere.

Meanwhile, the national team players will not leave for Australia for the next meeting, scheduled for August 28 in Perth, after the Prime Minister recently ordered a new confinement after a positive case was discovered.

There are five matches played by the All Blacks in this rugby tournament, that is against Australia, then two matches against South Africa, the world champions, and Argentina.

Australia coach ‘very angry’

“Given the uncertainties, it seems reasonable to take a break and seek more clarity in the programming of these matches.Mark Robinson, CEO of New Zealand Rugby. We remain 100% committed to playing the entire rugby tournament in 2021 and work closely with Sanzaar (competition promoter) To review a variety of options. “

An announcement that hasn’t really been appreciated in Australia, especially by Andy Marinos, President of the Australian Federation: “It is very disappointing that you were informed of this decision through the media during our exchange with the President of the New Zealand Football Association just moments ago, and that this intention was never mentioned.” Wallabies coach Dave Rainey said “Very angry”.

And some media talked about a possible displacement of this match in the province of Queensland, and perhaps another in Europe. Argentina matches have already been moved and South Africa lost the entire rugby tournament last year for the same reasons.

However, the South African Rugby Union (SA) offered to organize the remaining matches at home. “We have informed Sanzaar that we are ready and able to host the rest of the competition in South Africa. We are simply waiting for government approval”Gauri Rowe, SA Rugby President said, via a press release.

“La Sanzaar is considering several options – including organizing the competition in South Africa – and will announce its decision once all logistical, commercial and broadcasting considerations have been taken into account.”Adds the press release from SA Rugby.