Saturday's Super Rugby Pacific game between the Hurricanes and Moana Pasifika has been postponed because of Covid-19 in the Hurricanes camp.
A statement says the effects of Covid-19 has hit the Hurricanes' player pool.
Photo: PhotoSport / Andrew Cornaga
Moana Pasifika have only managed to play one game so far, the 33-12 defeat to the Crusaders in Dunedin last weekend.
"Dealing with Covid is extremely complicated and it is important that the focus shifts to the health and well-being of the Hurricanes team," said Moana Pasifika CEO Pelenato Sakalia.
"Under the circumstances postponing the game is the right decision and Moana Pasifika wishes the Hurricanes team a speedy recovery and look forward to meeting on the field soon."
New Zealand Rugby General Manager Professional Rugby & Performance Chris Lendrum said it was disappointing for both teams, but particularly Moana Pasifika who were dealing with their third postponed match of the season.
"Every effort was made to play this match but despite looking at replacement player options the number of players affected by COVID was simply too great to overcome and the right decision has been reached.
"We are supporting the Hurricanes as much as we can as they deal with a large number of players being unavailable, while it is obviously disappointing for Moana Pasifika who were itching to play again after finally getting their season underway last week.
"On a brighter note we are very close to confirming the rescheduling of Moana Pasifika's previous two postponed matches against the Blues and Chiefs and are confident we can also reschedule the Hurricanes match later in the season."