Sale Sharks forfeit Premiership fixture vs Worcester Warriors after multiple positive coronavirus tests
The Gallagher Premiership fixture between Sale Sharks and Worcester Warriors, scheduled to be played tonight, is called off.
Sale released a statement on Wednesday morning which confirmed their decision to forfeit the match on 'health and safety grounds' after multiple positive coronavirus tests among their players and staff.
Worcester are handed a 20-0 win and five league points due to Sale's decision to forfeit, while Sharks themselves are denied the chance to claim a victory which would have seen them leapfrog fourth-place Bath to qualify for the Premiership play-offs
A Sale statement read: "Sale Sharks confirm that the club will forfeit its Gallagher Premiership Round 22 fixture with Worcester Warriors on health and safety grounds.
"Following testing yesterday, a further 7 positive tests (5 players and 2 rugby staff) have been reported and therefore it is not safe to play.
"Sale Sharks has worked closely with Premiership Rugby, Public Health England and Public Health North West, the RFU and Worcester Warriors and would like to thank all parties for their contribution during this challenging period.
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"This is devastating for Sale Sharks, the players and staff with Covid-19 denying the club the chance to challenge for the Premiership title at the final hurdle. Sale Sharks and all involved with the club are determined to come back stronger than ever in time for next season."
A Worcester statement added: "Worcester Warriors welcome the cancellation of tonight's Gallagher Premiership match against Sale Sharks at the AJ Bell Stadium.
"This is the right outcome for the safety of all players, staff and officials involved, although we do have sympathy for Sale that such an important match has been decided in this way.
"Sadly, we are playing rugby in the middle of a pandemic and in unprecedented circumstances.
Gallagher Premiership play-off fixtures
- Exeter Chiefs vs Bath
- Wasps vs Bristol Bears
"While it is desirable to retain the integrity of all competitions as much as possible, ultimately the health and safety of all involved has to be the absolute priority.
"Now we know that our own players are not at any increased risk, our thoughts are with those at Sale and Northampton Saints who have tested positive for COVID-19. We wish them all a speedy recovery and hope that no further cases are reported.
"Hopefully, the remainder of the season can be completed safely and securely to provide a fitting finale on the pitch."