Super Rugby: Western Force to relocate for tournament’s opening rounds

The Western Force will base themselves on Australia’s east coast for the opening two rounds of the inaugural season of Super Rugby Pacific due to ongoing border restrictions in Western Australia as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The move will see the Force swap home games with the Brumbies and Waratahs amid further border controls within Western Australia.

Click here for the full revised Super Rugby Pacific draw.

The Force’s opening round home Super Rugby Pacific fixture against the Brumbies will now be played in Canberra on Sunday, February 20, with the reverse fixture set for Western Australia in Round Six.

Meanwhile, their Round Four fixture against the Waratahs will now be played at Leichhardt Oval on Sunday, March 13. They will look to host the New South Wales-based side in Round Nine.

“I’d like to thank the Western Force, Brumbies, NSW Waratahs and Reds for their understanding and the spirit of cooperation in which they’ve worked as we’ve progressed through these necessary changes,” said Rugby Australia CEO Andy Marinos in a statement.

“Unfortunately, we are all now well versed in dealing with these kinds of changes as we continue to navigate the uncertainty that surrounds Covid-19. We have managed to find a solution that maintains the integrity of the draw and allows us to proceed with minimal disruptions to the season.

“The Western Force players, staff and their families are making a significant sacrifice and we thank them for that.

“Rugby has faced many challenges of the last couple of years but I am heartened by the spirit and resolve which has been displayed by the entire Rugby community as we’ve worked together to find solutions and positive outcomes for the game during a difficult time.”

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