On Thursday night the United Kingdom announced that they will be suspending flights from South Africa as well as five other Southern African countries due to the new variant of Covid-19.

This has prompted the two Welsh teams to start the process of returning home in over to avoid being stuck in South Africa.

As of Monday, persons returning to the UK will have to quarantine in hotels in order to curb the spread of the virus.

At this stage is unknown whether or not Munster and Zebre will be returning back to Ireland and Italy respectively.

These two sides are set to tackle the Bulls and Stormers in Pretoria and Cape Town.

This morning Scarlets announced that they are trying to ensure the return of their touring party to Llanelli.

“Following the news of a new COVID-19 variant in South Africa, Scarlets would like to assure families and friends that we are making every effort to get our touring party back home to the UK as soon as possible. We will provide further updates as soon as we can.”

Cardiff in their turn made a similar announcement.

“With the situation in South Africa having changed so quickly, we are now looking to repatriate our staff ASAP. For concerned families and friends, please rest assured that our focus is to ensure the safety and welfare of our people and will keep you updated with any developments.”

SA Rugby and Celtic Rugby are yet to making an announcement on the games in question.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport