Rugby League World Cup 2021 postponed until 2022 following withdrawals
This year’s Rugby League World Cup in England has been postponed until 2022 after the withdrawal of champions Australia, and New Zealand.
The two countries pulled out of the tournament citing “player welfare and safety concerns” related to Covid-19.
Thet World Cup, featuring men’s, women’s and wheelchair events, was set to start in Newcastle on 23 October.
“It became unfeasible and irresponsible for us to carry on,” said Jon Dutton, chief executive of the tournament.
“I think it will take some time for international rugby league to recover from this. I hope we can be a beacon of light.
Fresh Covid outbreaks in Australia have forced most states to reimpose restrictions, while the majority of coronavirus restrictions in England have been lifted despite a rise in cases – although those numbers appear to be falling.
There were concerns about players and staff having to quarantine for 14 days on their return to Australia, with the country’s borders currently closed because of the pandemic.
Rugby league officials estimate about 400-500 players, staff and team officials from Australia’s National Rugby League – representing several different countries – would be impacted by any quarantine measures on their return to the country after the tournament.
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