NRL on standby as New Zealand team left stranded in US by bad weather after Denver Test
MILLIONS of dollars worth of Kiwi rugby league talent has been stranded in the United States, throwing the preparation of NRL clubs into turmoil for this weekend’s round of football.
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MILLIONS of dollars worth of Kiwi rugby league talent has been stranded in the United States, throwing the preparation of NRL clubs into turmoil for this weekend’s round of football.
An electrical storm in Denver forced the cancellation of the New Zealand Test team’s return flight to Sydney and Auckland after the loss to England.
The team is staying in a hotel close to the airport waiting to be booked onto a new flight.
St George Illawarra play the Parramatta Eels on Thursday night with front-rower Leeson Ah Mau not expected back until the day before the game.
The New Zealand Warriors, who play Cronulla on Friday night, are desperately waiting on Issac Luke, Ken Maumalo and Peta Hiku to return.
The Sydney Roosters, who play Melbourne on Friday night, have no idea what day Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Isaac Liu will get home for their trip to Adelaide. The Storm are also waiting on Nelson Asofa-Solomona.
The NRL clubs were informed by Kiwi team manager Nadene Conlon of the delay by email at 2.30pm on Monday.
“I hate to be the bearer of bad news and am sure you may be aware already, however have just managed to get to a point to touch base with you to confirm that our flight from Denver, USA, was cancelled earlier due to an electrical storm,” the email read.
“I have been working through a number of processes and airlines since the cancellation to get the boys to their home destinations as soon as possible as understand that your club games are fast approaching.
“There are some challenges with availability, particularly on the appropriate class fare, however hope to have some resolve before too long.
“I sincerely apologise for the inconvenience in this unfortunate situation and will ensure to keep you updated as the information comes to hand.
“In the meantime please be advised that everyone is currently being accommodated in a 5-star hotel next to the Denver Airport and your players will be well nourished. Our high performance and medical staff are monitoring all the players and all the appropriate protocols will continue to be met to ensure the boys are looked after appropriately in every aspect.
I appreciate your patience and will speak soon.”
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