Covid-19 case forces WNBL to cancel round two game

The WNBL has been forced to cancel the round two clash between the UC Capitals and Sydney University Flames.

A Covid-19 scare has caused headaches for WNBL organisers less than two rounds into the 2021/22 season.

The Sydney University Flames won’t have the chance to avenge their round one loss to the University of Canberra Capitals on Sunday, after a Covid-19 case forced the WNBL to cancel the rematch.

On Thursday evening, the WNBL confirmed an individual who attended a Capitals training session on Tuesday morning returned a positive Covid-19 test later in the week.

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All Capitals players and coaches were deemed close contacts and have been ordered to isolate for seven days, making Sunday’s fixture untenable.

The individual who tested positive is not suggested to have breached ACT Government health orders by attending the training session and is undertaking 14 days of isolation.

The WNBL has confirmed Flames players will also undergo Covid-19 testing.

The Capitals defeated the Flames 58-55 last Sunday. Picture: Jason McCawley / Getty Images

“The WNBL has a Covid safety plan for all players, officials and fans that ensures we adhere to all Government requirements and move swiftly to prevent any spread of the virus,” said the WNBL’s executive general manager of competitions, Paul Maley.

“We will continue to monitor this situation closely, working collaboratively with the clubs.”

The WNBL has begun the process of finding an alternate time at which to play the game.

In the first of round two’s games, the Bendigo Spirit edged out the Melbourne Boomers at home 63-58, with Bendigo’s Anneli Maley leading all scorers (18 points).

The Adelaide Lightning will host the Townsville Fire on Saturday, before the Boomers have the chance to avenge their loss to the Spirit when they face the Southside Flyers, who are beginning to adjust to life without superstar Liz Cambage.

Originally published as Covid-19 case forces WNBL to cancel round two game