Huddersfield Giants v Castleford Tigers OFF after Castleford hit by 12 Covid positives and Salford Red Devils forfeit game

CASTLEFORD Tigers have reported a DOZEN positive Covid-19 tests meaning Friday's game against Huddersfield Giants is cancelled.
Castleford Tigers players after conceding another try against Leeds Rhinos on Monday night. (Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com)Castleford Tigers players after conceding another try against Leeds Rhinos on Monday night. (Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com)
Castleford Tigers players after conceding another try against Leeds Rhinos on Monday night. (Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com)

It is the second time West Yorkshire club Castleford have been forced into pulling out of a fixture after their match with Leeds Rhinos was also chalked off due to the pandemic earlier this month.

Castleford lost 28-24 to Leeds in that rearranged game at Headingley on Monday night so track and trace will now be investigated to see if any players from Rhinos - who face Wakefield Trinity tomorrow - need to self-isolate.

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Daryl Powell's side - who have won just twice since lockdown was ended - were also in action against Hull KR on Thursday.

An RFL statement read: "Friday night’s Betfred Super League fixture between Huddersfield Giants and Castleford Tigers has been cancelled after the Tigers this morning reported 12 positive Covid-19 tests.

"The RFL and Super League will today liaise with Public Health England, Castleford Tigers and the Tigers’ last opponents, Leeds Rhinos, before the Multiple Case Group meets to consider the data and decide next steps.

"Super League and the RFL are actively exploring all options and will make a further announcement as soon as practicable.

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"Castleford’s tests were conducted on Tuesday 27 October. The results of this week’s testing across all clubs will be provided as soon as complete information is available."

The Huddersfield v Castleford game at John Smith's Stadium, due to kick-off at 5.30pm, was not listed for live broadcast.

However, Sky Sports were due to broadcast Warrington Wolves v Salford at that time but that has also been cancelled.

Beaten Challenge Cup finalists Salford - due to play four times in 11 days after reaching Wembley - have forfeited the game due to player availability issues.

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They say they only have 13 players are available for selection including two recent loan signings and two players promoted from the academy, who were brought into the squad in order to assist in the fulfilment of fixtures.

The RFL added; "Under competition rules governing forfeited fixtures, Warrington will be awarded a 24-0 victory. "The matter will be referred to the RFL’s Compliance Department for further consideration.

"In the meantime, Super League continues to explore fixture rescheduling options in light of this morning’s announcements."

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