Staff Reporter
The Free State could be considered for hosting the rugby bio-bubble for domestic games set to start at the end of August.
A bio-bubble is a strictly controlled bio-secure environment where players, management and staff are regularly monitored for COVID-19 infections.
The initial choice for the rugby bio-bubble was Johannesburg but the sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in Gauteng may scupper the plans.
SA Rugby chief executive officer Jurie Roux confirmed to SA Rugby Magazine that they are considering another option outside the COVID-19 epicentre.
“We are busy negotiating with government on two scenarios,” Roux was quoted as saying.
“One outside a bio-bubble and one in a bio-bubble. It is now where that bio-bubble will be,” he added.
“Initially, the destination of choice was Johannesburg for various reasons. However, Johannesburg is becoming a real hotspot now in terms of COVID-19 . . .”
Roux said they will be presenting their plans to the government by the end of the week and hopefully get an answer next week.
“Our return-to-play date is still the last weekend of August or first weekend of September or at the latest the second weekend of September,” he said.
OFM reports that Toyota Cheetahs have put in a “very good” bid to host the bio-bubble.
It said the Free State franchise has proposed that all of the matches can be hosted at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, and if push comes to shove, Tafel Lager Park in Kimberley is also an option to host matches. 0718415254
Essentially, the bubble is a sanitised rugby biosphere with strict entry standards and limited movement outside of its cordon.
The purpose of this facility is to restrict any possible spreading of the coronavirus.
Everyone is tested before entry and every person’s movement is controlled in order to monitor and manage a safe environment.