Majority of Munster squad heads home

NEWS: The majority of Munster's squad has left Cape Town after a "difficult time" in South Africa.

The Irish team were left stranded in South Africa following the detection of a Covid-19 variant late last week.

They were due to leave the country on Sunday, but their trip was delayed due to a positive Covid-19 case.

Things then got worse when it was announced that more positive cases were detected. Those players and staff were moved to a designated quarantine hotel in Cape Town.

However, late on Tuesday, the team revealed that 34 members of their squad were on their way home to Ireland.

"In a hugely positive development the wider Munster Rugby touring party departed Cape Town tonight [Tuesday] after a group of 34 players and staff received negative results on completing a fourth round of PCR testing in six days," said a statement.

"Team management worked tirelessly on securing scheduled flights at short notice and the group are expected to land in Dublin on Wednesday evening.

"Another four positive cases were identified in Tuesday’s round of PCR testing and a total group of 14 will see out their respective isolation periods at the designated quarantine hotel in Cape Town.

"This is a difficult time for all players and staff involved and we are very mindful of their wellbeing and the understandable concern from family and friends at home. The group will be well looked after with team liaisons Warren Morris and Kubaan Lorens remaining on site with medical support provided daily.

"As outlined by the government earlier this week, on arrival from South Africa the returning players and staff will follow mandatory self-isolation at their own locations.

"Munster Rugby would like to say a huge thank you to the management and staff at the Cullinan Hotel for all their help and efforts over the last few days, especially at a time when last-minute support and requirements were needed for a large group.

"The contribution Warren and Kubaan made during this time cannot be overstated and we are indebted to the duo for their professionalism and support.

"Again, we wish to take this opportunity to thank the Irish government, the IRFU, South Africa Rugby, URC, and the health authorities for their assistance in particular with regards to facilitating the safe return of our staff and players."