Two people in total test positive from 896 players and club staff
Wednesday 22 July 2020 17:39, UK
Two Premiership players have tested positive for coronavirus in the third round of testing.
Last week, there were seven players who tested positive for Covid-19, along with two non-playing staff members from a sample of 856 people.
In the first round of testing, there were 10 positive results from six players and four non-playing staff members from a total of 804.
"Premiership Rugby can today confirm that on Monday 20 July, 896 players and club staff were tested as part of the PCR COVID-19 screening programme," a statement said.
"Of these, two people have tested positive. Of those two, who are from different clubs, both are players.
"The players who have tested positive and their close contacts will now isolate and be assessed in line with the PHE-agreed guidelines.
"Premiership Rugby and the RFU are providing this aggregated information for competition integrity and transparency. No specific details as to clubs or individuals will be provided. The number of positive results will be made public after each round of testing.
"The rise in those tested since week one (from 804) reflects several factors including the integration of more Academy players - as we expected - into senior Stage 2 training at our clubs."
The Premiership season resumes on Friday, August 14 when Harlequins take on Sale Sharks.
All attention will turn to the Twickenham Stoop, 159 days after the last Premiership match was staged.
Following the opener in west London, there will be four compelling matches on Saturday at Bath Rugby, Worcester Warriors, Bristol Bears and leaders Exeter Chiefs, before the weekend ends at Franklin's Gardens where Northampton Saints face Wasps.
Premiership Rugby has also confirmed that the Premiership Rugby Final 2020 will take place on Saturday October 24.
