Leeds Rhinos training ground now shut down for at least ten days

The Super League club closed it down last Thursday for five days after an initial seven positive tests - six players and one member of staff.

However, with the additional cases since taking them into double figures, they have extended that now and the facility will remain off limits for at least 10 days.

Sinfield said: “It is right that we proceed with caution to make sure that we have any cases within our group under control.

“I am pleased to say all those who have tested positive are either asymptomatic or suffering mild symptoms and they continue to receive the full support of the club.

“With us testing every day, it enables us to monitor the whole group and we are confident we are moving in the right direction to return to training as soon as it is safe to do so.”

The club has worked closely with the RFL’s Multiple Case Group to discuss the impact and next steps, in line with the Multiple Case Framework, and there will be a further round of PCR testing on Friday.

Rhinos - who are due to start the Super League season on March 25 - say the rationale for this decision is to ensure that any trace of the virus is eradicated prior to return to the training ground.

The process will remain under review depending on the test results over the next five days.