The Western Force have confirmed Sunday’s trial against the Fijian Drua in Ballina has been cancelled.
The Force were expected to make the trip east for trials against the Drua and the Reds, however, further border controls have forced the club to remain in WA to ‘protect the wellbeing of the players, coaches and staff.’
Force CEO Tony Lewis revealed the club will continue to work with the WA government as they look to ensure they can still host Super Rugby games throughout the season.
“We are very disappointed to not be playing Fijian Drua this weekend,” Lewis said in a statement.
“The recent announcement regarding the movement in and out of Western Australia is something we have no control over and we will not be putting our players and their families in a position of uncertainty around returning home.
“We are continuing to work closely with the government to ensure we deliver seven home games this season and gain further clarity on the situation.”
The Drua have confirmed they will instead proceed with an internal practice match at Ballina Rugby Club.
The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua have today announced the cancellation of the trial match against Western Force scheduled for Sunday 30 January in Ballina,” a club statement said.
“The cancellation follows advice from the Force, who are unable to travel in and out of Western Australia as earlier anticipated, due to the delay in WA border reopening.
“The Drua share the disappointment of fans and stakeholders about the cancellation and sincerely apologise to those planning a trip to Ballina this Sunday to watch the trial match.
“We will, instead, proceed with an internal practice match made up of two teams from the squad. Fans are welcome to watch this practice match, which kicks off at 4pm at the Ballina Rugby Union ground. All visitors to the grounds are requested to follow NSW COVID-safety protocols at all times to protect themselves and others.”
SOURCE: RUGBY.COM.AU/ PACNEWS
