The Highlanders vs Rebels match is hanging by the balance following the travel suspension between New Zealand and Victoria due to an increase in the COVID-19 cases in Melbourne.
New Zealand COVID-19 Minister Chris Hipkins confirmed the bubble between New Zealand and Victoria would be suspended for at least 72 hours due to 9 COVID-19 community cases confirmed yesterday afternoon.
Hipkins says the travel pause has started from last night and will be under constant review.
This would mean the Rebels will not be able to get into Queenstown until Friday night or Saturday morning unless an exemption is granted.
NZ Media reports the Rebels are currently in discussion on their next steps while they await advice from the Australian government.
Highlanders CEO Roger Clark says they had hoped taking the game to Queenstown will help the city as it continues to recover financially from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Clark says this match provided them with their first real opportunity to assist a very important part of our region.
The Highlanders are scheduled to meet the Rebels at 2.35pm Sunday at Sir John Davies Oval Stadium.
In other matches, the Hurricanes will take on the Western Force at 7.05pm Friday, the Waratahs will host the Crusaders at 5.05pm Saturday, the Blues will face the Brumbies at 7.15pm Saturday, and the Chiefs will play the Reds at 9.45pm Saturday.
[Source: tvnz]
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