Please read the latest update about School Rugby from the NZSRU:
(Posted 24 August 2021)
UPDATE: The New Zealand Schools Rugby Union (NZSRU) has also made the difficult decision to cancel the Barbarians National Secondary School Championships Top 4 tournament, which has fallen victim to COVID-19 related disruptions for the second consecutive year.
The Government announced on Monday that Auckland will remain at Alert Level 4 for a period of seven days, until 11.59PM Tuesday 31 August, while the rest of New Zealand will be at Alert Level 4 for a period of three days until 11.59PM Friday 27 August.
NZR General Manager Community Rugby Steve Lancaster said cancelling all rugby across the country this weekend was the only responsible option.
“It’s disappointing once again to have to keep our participants on the side-lines, but it’s the right thing to do under the circumstances.
“Although some parts of the country may be in a position to play on Saturday, teams would not have been able to train for two weeks which potentially creates player welfare issues. Clubs and schools would not have adequate time from midnight Friday to prepare to host games within government guidelines, so we will wait another week and hopefully rugby can play it’s part in helping the country stamp out this outbreak.
“We share the disappointment of players, fans and other stakeholders and know it’s especially tough for the secondary schools involved in the Top 4 tournament, which provides such a great finale to the first XV season.”