Asia Rugby decided to postpone all Asia Rugby competitions scheduled from 1-3-2020 to 30-6-2020 until further notice. This is in response to continued health concerns related to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Asia Rugby President, Mr Qais Al Dhalai said: “The health and safety of players, fans and everyone working on the events is always Asia Rugby’s highest priority.
This prudent decision has been taken in order to help protect the Asia Rugby community and the wider public,” He further added, “Our decision is based on the World Health Organisation and other relevant public authorities’ travel and health guidelines.”
The Asia Rugby President also sought the valuable expertise of Asia Rugby’s Player Welfare and Medical Committee. Dr Mutsuo Yamada, Chairperson of the Committee, and five Zonal Medical Officers offered their expert opinion to the Asia Rugby’s EXCO.
“Asia Rugby Player Welfare and Medical Committee noted that the global Coronovirus (COVID-19) situation continues to evolve rapidly, and is affecting Unions throughout Asia.
Some countries have instituted quarantine and or screening measures for travellers arriving from overseas with restrictions being imposed by governments.
The logistics of hosting international rugby competitions, such as quarantine regulations, capacity of health facilities to diagnose and treat COVID-19 infections, access to personal protective equipment for event staff etc,. are significant.” said Dr Yamada.
Chairperson Asia Rugby Competition Committee’s Asanga Seneviratne added ” We have decided to postpone our competitions in the first half of year due to the Coronovirus (COVID-19) situation as safety of our players, fans and everyone involved in hosting tournaments overrides any other factors”
Due to the ongoing outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19) It was decided that Asia Rugby take a proactive role, minimise risk and postpone Asia Rugby events till the 30th of June,
The decision is fully supported by stakeholders and member Unions. Please visit the Asia Rugby website for further details www.asiarugby.com
