Catalans game against Leeds called off due to Rhinos player self-isolating

Drew Darbyshire

Catalans’ home game against Leeds, which was due to be played behind closed doors, has been called off due to a Rhinos player showing symptoms of possible coronavirus.

Leeds have not travelled to Spain this morning ahead of Saturday’s clash against Catalans on medical grounds.

A member of the Rhinos squad has self-isolated after showing symptoms of possible coronavirus.

The player is currently being managed in line with the current department of health guidance and subsequent steps for the rest of the squad, if necessary, will be advised by the Rhinos medical team ​in conjunction with the NHS.

Leeds were due to fly to Barcelona on Friday before going north to Perpignan ahead of Saturday’s fixture and then returning to the UK via Barcelona on Sunday.

Rhinos director of rugby, Kevin Sinfield, said: “We are disappointed to be in a position whereby we have had to make this decision but the health and well being of everyone is our paramount concern particularly with us having to fly to fulfil the fixture.

“We were travelling on a scheduled flight to Barcelona and with one of our players self-isolating, we felt it was the responsible thing to do both for our players and staff and members of the public who we would share the flight with. I would like to thank Catalans Dragons for their understanding.”

A Rugby Football League spokesman said: “We have been advised by Leeds Rhinos that they will not be travelling to France to fulfil their scheduled fixture against Catalans Dragons.

“The consequences of this decision on the match, and any sanction, will be determined by the RFL board.”

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