NRL 2021: Latest updates on how Covid is impacting the NRL season

The South Sydney-North Queensland clash has been moved after the Queensland government forced a switch due to Covid concerns.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – JULY 04: Cameron Murray of the Rabbitohs celebrates with teammates after scoring a try during the round 16 NRL match between the Wests Tigers and the South Sydney Rabbitohs at Leichhardt Oval on July 04, 2021, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)

The Queensland government has forced a venue change for Friday night’s South Sydney-North Queensland match, originally set down for Stadium Australia.

The game will be switched to McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle because the Olympic Park in Homebush has been identified as a Covid exposure site.

The Queensland government refused to allow residents of the Sunshine State to enter a hot spot in Sydney, even if they are flying in and out on the same day.

Newcastle hosted the Roosters-Storm game last week and is expected to be named as the State of Origin venue later today.

Originally published as NRL 2021: Latest updates on how Covid is impacting the NRL season