Newcastle Eagles’ plans to start the BBL season have been hit by a positive coronavirus test.
The club has confirmed an unnamed player showed up positive for Covid, forcing him and his team-mates to self-isolate under government guidelines.
Initially, it means Friday’s pre-season friendly with Cheshire Phoenix has been cancelled.
However with those in contact with others testing positive for the virus advised to isolate for 14 days, it seems unlikely that the Eagles can begin the campaign next weekend when the British Basketball League was originally supposed to tip off.
A club statement said: “The club received confirmation that one of its BBL player has tested positive for COVID-19 and following current Basketball England guidance the player and his teammates are now in isolation.
“Since the return to indoor courts this summer, the club and all its players have been following the strictest national governing body guidelines, to the highest standards, in order to prevent the spread of any coronavirus cases.
“The Eagles Community Arena has been paving the way for indoor sport in its operation of a COVID-secure environment to train and play after it was approved as safe to host a test event as part of the return of spectators to venues and in successfully holding a pilot of the Basketball England and BBL game day guidance.
“Today’s decision follows detailed consultation with the league, national governing body and their medical team, in the interest of the health and well-being of the players and staff at both clubs.”
Leicester Riders previously had several players, including from its WBBL team, required to isolate following positive tests.
Photo: MAP
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