Due to the current COVID-19 situation in NSW, the Western Force has finished its 2021 Super W season early, returning to Perth to complete the mandatory two weeks quarantine.
This decision ensures players and staff can return to their families and fulfil employment obligations without further impact.
Force CEO Tony Lewis said the decision was made for the welfare of the players and management of the team.
“We were greatly looking forward to Round Two after a very promising start to the season. However, the health and well-being of our players, their families and team management is our priority.”
The Round Two fixture between the Western Force and NSW Waratahs in Coffs Harbour has been cancelled with the remaining Super W teams’ games continuing as scheduled.
Any updates to the competition fixtures and format will be announced in the coming days.
Rugby Australia CEO Andy Marinos said: “We are really disappointed for all of the ladies competing in this year’s Buildcorp Super W as we continue to manage the impacts of COVID-19.
“It was set to be a great festival of rugby in Coffs Harbour, providing much-needed game time leading into the Test Series.
“We have had fantastic support from NSW Regional Government, competition partners Buildcorp as well as Nine and Stan around this event, and I want to personally thank them for their understanding in making this decision.”
Rugby Australia General Manager Women’s Rugby Jilly Collins said: “It is obviously very disappointing to be in this position, but we had to consider the welfare of our players and staff based in Western Australia.
“These programs are not full-time. Players and management take time away from family and off work to compete in this tournament. Given the new restrictions implemented, our priority was to ensure minimal further disruption to their lives outside of the sport.
“The situation for our other teams is slightly different but we will continue to manage that on a day-to-day basis.”
