Premiership Rugby statement: 14 people in 8 clubs test positive

A total of 14 people have tested positive for Covid-19 following the latest round of Premiership Rugby PCR testing.

The people in question - which include players and backroom staff - and any close contacts, have been isolated.

A statement reads: "Premiership Rugby can today confirm that it has started its pre-season PCR COVID-19 screening programme ahead of the 2020-21 season with all 12 clubs taking part this week for the first time.

"On Monday 9 November and Wednesday 11 November, 966 players and management from 12 clubs were tested as part of the PCR COVID-19 screening programme. Of those who were tested 14 people - from eight different clubs - tested positive. Ten of those who tested positive were players and four were members of staff.

"Those who tested positive and their close contacts are isolated and assessed in line with the PHE-agreed guidelines.

"Premiership Rugby and the RFU are providing this aggregated information for competition integrity and transparency for the second successive season. No specific details as to clubs or individuals will be provided under any circumstances. The number of positive results will be made public after each round of testing."

Positive tests at Sale Sharks prior to the conclusion of the 2019/2019 Premiership season through the competition into turmoil in its final two weeks. Sale Sharks were unable to contest a likely playoff place due to the widespread outbreak at the club.

Daily coronavirus deaths in the United Kingdom have been over 500 for several days.