Canterbury Bulldogs to field team despite Covid scare

Josh McAllister
Canterbury Bulldogs

Canterbury Bulldogs have been hit by a Covid-19 outbreak ahead of their clash with Brisbane Broncos.

They are without 12 first-team players due to covid and injuries for Friday’s clash.

Brent Naden, Ava Seumanufagai, Jake Averillo and Reece Hoffman returned positive tests earlier this week. It has provided the chance for several players to make their debut for the Bulldogs in a must-win clash.

Jacob Kiraz and Billy Tsikrikas have been named to make their first NRL appearances this Friday.

Trent Barrett’s side have won just one game so far in the 2022 campaign – sitting at the bottom of the ladder.

Their opposition in the Broncos are just two places above, having won twice so far.

Canterbury Bulldogs boss addresses media

“There’s 12 unavailable (in total) so a fair chunk of our players,” said head coach Barrett.

“But we’ll be fine. It’s not ideal but we’ve put together a side that will still be competitive and expected to win.

“We have got a few issues around our New South Wales Cup and Jersey Flegg games, which we’ve asked to postpone. It’s put more pressure on our lower grades than anything.

“In terms of our NRL game we’ll be fine. It’s not great news but it is what it is and we won’t be the last club to go through it, it’s just a few more than what we’d like.

“It’s compounded by the injury list we’ve got at the moment which hasn’t helped.”

General manager Phil Gould shared on social media: “All 24 Canterbury Bulldogs test negative this morning. Last RAT at 4pm today, but not anticipating any problems. Looking forward to seeing our debut players tonight.”

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Contract news

Earlier this week, the Bulldogs announced that Max King had signed a new extended contract with the club. The new deal will see the forward at Belmore until the end of 2024.

Meanwhile, Newcastle Knights have confirmed the signing of Anthony Milford for the remainder of the 2022 campaign.

READ MORE: Melbourne Storm locked in talks to secure State of Origin star for 2022

NRL Canterbury Bulldogs