What the COVID-19 tests are like for Super League players

James Gordon

Photo via the @Saints1890 Twitter

Super League players are currently being tested weekly for coronavirus ahead of next month’s restart.

No positive tests have been recorded out of 924 taken so far across the 11 remaining Super League clubs.

A number of players have been shown undertaking the test via club channels in recent weeks, as they all returned to training.

Screen4, who are the appointed company carrying out the tests, told us: “The test involves a swab that takes a sample from the back of the throat and the nasal cavity, it can be slightly uncomfortable and takes approximately 30 seconds to complete.

“Results are back within 24 hours. If a player or an official tests Positive for COVID-19 each Club will revert to their COVID-19 Strategy and follow the necessary steps.”

Tests are generally done at the end of training prior to a day off, meaning the results are back before players return.

Clubs are covering the costs of their testing and every player or member of staff who attends the training ground must complete a screening protocol to detect any symptoms.

Players and staff will also be required to complete a daily medical questionnaire submitted before arrival at the training ground on training days. If this is not submitted before arrival, access to the training ground will be denied.

Although appreciative of the necessity of the testing to ensure a return to action, players have acknowledged the discomfort of the tests – saying that it causes gagging and prolonged sneezing episodes afterwards.

It is expected that testing will be required until the end of the season.

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