How coronavirus has impacted Wigan Warriors

A number of high-profile sporting events have been cancelled or postponed and Leeds have decided not to travel to face Catalans, in a game which was due to be played behind closed doors.

Super League and the RFL say they are taking the advice issued by the Prime Minister and Chief Medical Officer that "there is no medical rationale for restricting large public events such as sports fixtures – and our programme is therefore due to go ahead as planned this weekend."

But clubs have been reminded of the importance of sensible hygiene for all those attending.

Wigan had already taken measures to try and prevent the spread of the virus.

They have cancelled external events for players and coaches and suspended their interactions with fans on match days. Antibacterial handwash stations have been placed at their base at Robin Park.

Executive director, Kris Radlinski, said: “We would like to thank supporters for their understanding as it takes necessary precautions to care for the health of the playing squad, staff and our supporters.

“We are lucky to have a group of players who understand and value how important our fans are, and we need no reminder to how important they are to us a Club and to the game of rugby league.

“Understandably, we have had to make provisions around coronavirus that have resulted in us making some changes to how we engage with our supporters including on game day, that emphasises the health and wellbeing of our players and staff.”

The RFL concedes the coronavirus situation is "fluid" and predicts there is "likely to be a significant impact on our competitions at some point."

Wigan's next home game is due to be on Mother's Day next Sunday, March 22 against French club Catalans Dragons.