Remaining Cardiff Rugby players and staff to face second isolation period on return to UK

Cardiff player returns to the UK after Covid nightmare Credit: PA

The six remaining Cardiff Rugby players and staff out in South Africa are set to face a second isolation period on their return to the United Kingdom.

Cardiff Rugby have confirmed that the extraction of their remaining squad and staff members in South Africa is now underway.

One player has already arrived back in the UK and three other players are currently on route back to the country.

The remaining two individuals will be departing Cape Town on Friday.

On arrival, all six will have to isolate for a further ten days at a government approved hotel.

This is on top of the ten day quarantine at a South African Covid-19 facility.

Extraction begins to bring remaining players and staff back to the UK from South Africa Credit: PA

Cardiff Rugby are working with their partners and are in discussions with the UK Government's Department for Digital, Culture Media and Sport.

The club has issued the following statement: "This is a situation which impacts hundreds of people returning from red list countries, who have already served a 10-day quarantine following a positive Covid-19 test.

"We are seeking clarification from DCMS as to why a second quarantine is required for the individuals in this unique situation.

"The main priority of Cardiff Rugby remains to support the health and wellbeing of our people.

"We will continue to work alongside the relevant parties to deliver the best outcome."

Cardiff Rugby are preparing to face Toulouse on Saturday for their opening Heineken Champions Cup game.

With a total of 42 players and staff members unavailable due to Covid quarantine and injuries, the club has had to turn to Academy players and semi-pros in order to go ahead with the fixture.

Ellis Jenkins is set to captain the side, with 11 players in line to make their competitive debuts for the club.