The NRL All-Stars game is shrouded in uncertainty as COVID continues to wreak havoc on the NRL.
The Sydney Morning Herald has reported that clubs are hesitant on releasing players for the fixture over concerns that they could face more setbacks if further players test positive for the virus.
Wests Tigers Chairman Lee Hagipantelis revealed that he had not been informed on any updates on the match and questions whether the fixture will go ahead.
“It’s a difficult one,” Hagipantelis told SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“It’s a fabulous feature of our NRL calendar and a great celebration of the Indigenous game.
“In the current climate. I question the wisdom of it (the All-Stars game) proceeding and having large crowds there.”
The interrupted pre-season for players across the 16 clubs has been a major headache and the last thing clubs want is more star players on the sideline due to COVID.
Hagipantelis says that the NRL and clubs will have to ensure that all necessary COVID protocols will have to be adhered to if the match is any chance of going ahead.
“These are things that will have to be determined in accordance with the medical advice that’s received,” Hagipantelis added.
“It’s difficult to advise or to respond to these concerns.”
Hagipantelis is also concerned that little is known about the lasting impact of COVID on players.
“We won’t know for some time on what, if any, of the long-term impacts of COVID on professional athletes,” he said.
The NRL All-Stars game is set to take place on February 12 at CommBank Stadium.