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How has the Covid-19 pandemic affected rugby tournaments and events around the world?

Lorelai Sebborn

Well, well, well, if it isn't my rugby-loving friends who are thirsty for some pandemic news. Don't worry, your friendly neighborhood user is here to satisfy your curiosity.

To say that the Covid-19 pandemic has affected rugby tournaments and events around the world would be an understatement. It's more like the pandemic just came in and snatched everything we hold dear, leaving us with no choice but to watch Rugby highlights on YouTube.

First and foremost, the Six Nations was one of the first international tournaments to be affected. The tournament was postponed in March 2020, and it wasn't until October 2020 that the remaining fixtures were played. But even then, there were no crowds allowed, so the players had to rely on their skills and motivation alone.

Then, we have the Rugby Championship, which is contested between the national teams of Australia, Argentina, New Zealand, and South Africa. The event was also postponed and eventually relocated from Australia to New Zealand due to travel restrictions. Imagine having to adjust to a different location and time zone, all while trying to win a rugby game. The struggle is real, friends.

At the domestic level, the Gallagher Premiership in England was suspended in March 2020, and when it resumed in August, it was done so behind closed doors with no fans in attendance. I mean, can you imagine not being able to sing your heart out while cheering for your team? It's a sad reality, my friends.

Moving over to the southern hemisphere, the Super Rugby competition was also impacted by the pandemic. The competition was suspended indefinitely in March 2020, and a new format, called the Super Rugby Aotearoa, was created in New Zealand, featuring only the five teams from the country. Meanwhile, the Australian teams played in their own domestic competition, the Super Rugby AU.

And let's not forget about the pinnacle of international rugby, the Rugby World Cup. The 2021 event was supposed to be held in New Zealand, but due to the pandemic, it was postponed until 2022. It's a bummer, but at least we have something to look forward to next year, right?

In summary, the Covid-19 pandemic has caused significant disruption to rugby tournaments and events around the world. From postponements and relocations to playing behind closed doors, the pandemic has challenged the resilience and adaptability of rugby players and fans alike. But fear not, my friends, for rugby will always find a way to prevail, even in the toughest of times.