The coronavirus crisis threatening the UK Super League is a reminder of why the strict NRL protocols are in place, says Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson.
Six Hull FC players as well as two coaches have tested positive for coronavirus, while their most recent opposition Salford are awaiting their test results.
Both clubs have cancelled training with the positive group in quarantine for 10 days, with the RFL to reschedule upcoming Super League and Challenge Cup fixtures.
The governing body is also analysing their game on Sunday to determine how many players from each team will also be required to self-isolate under the test-and-trace procedures.
Robinson says Super League cases show just how important the NRL guidelines are to keep the competition running, with Super League proceeding without any kind of “bubble”.
“The protocols are really harsh, really tough at times on the group of players and staff, they’re really restrictive but we have to adhere to them to keep playing,” Robinson said.
“Whilst you don’t always agree with them you have to stick to them.
“We need to finish this competition financially for players, staff and everybody who works in the office.
“We need to continue to play so the restrictive nature of the protocols for 50 people for the next 3 months, we have to do it.”
Robinson spent two years in 2012-13 coaching French club Catalans in the Super League and feared for the future of the competition, as well as the international game if cases amongst players continued to rise.
England are set to host the 2021 World Cup, starting in October.
“It’s hard to see the future, it’s hard to see what’s going to happen there but that competition needed to get up and running,” he said.
“The television rights are really important in the way that they run the game with Sky and other areas and it’s going to be tough.
“With Toronto out, now if Hull has to be out for a period of time, they’re trying to play a lot of games in a short period of time.
“It’s going to have to be well managed.”