Skip to main content

Rugby

Coronavirus: Queensland Premier throws NRL comeback plan in doubt

nrl-cropped_15ug35bl8tc8x15mwkfsxgmonq.jpg

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk poured cold water over the NRL's comeback plan, insisting the competition is not exempt from travel restrictions.

The NRL is planning to restart the coronavirus-hit season on May 28 after the campaign was suspended following just two rounds on March 23 due to COVID-19.

Advertisement

Radical plans are being considered to relaunch the 2020 season, with NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg insisting all ideas are on the table.

However, Palaszczuk declared players would be subject to 14-days quarantine any time they return to Queensland – where North Queensland Cowboys, Brisbane Broncos and Gold Coast Titans are based.

Palaszczuk's comments mean the Cowboys, Broncos and Titans would have to set up camp in New South Wales in order to play in the competition.

"There have been no discussions with me about it," she said. "I think we all have to abide by the same rules and I think we have to have very clear health advice about this.

"I would like to see the footy returned as much as everyone else. I would love to see the State of Origin played this year.

"But, unless we get firm health advice that it is OK, I think it sends the wrong message to the public.

"They would not meet the criteria [to cross the border], and secondly – as I said – we would need to have clear health advice.

"And I say to all the sporting organisations, let's just take a break, let's get this 'flattening the curve' under control.

"And then we can talk to the health officers about getting advice. Let's not rush this. Let's take this slowly."

 

Topik Berkaitan

Must Watch Video