Due to corona virus travel restrictions, two Warriors stars are prohibited from returning to New Zealand when the NRL 2020 season ends.
The Warriors, who played squad and staff, made a significant sacrifice to ensure that the premiership could be resumed after the closure of COVID-19 by establishing a hub in Australia for several months. The Australian border force granted them freedom to cross the trench in early May, and the Central Coast in New South Wales has been their temporary home ever since.
After it was confirmed that families would not be admitted to them, four Warriors players returned home after the eight-point defeat on Saturday against defending Sydney Roosters prime ministers.
In another devastating blow, however, the Warriors confirmed that second rower Eliesa Katoa and young gun Selestino Ravutaumada should not return to New Zealand at the end of the season.
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Although Katoa or Ravutaumada have lived in the country for several years, they are neither New Zealand citizens nor are they subject to strict travel restrictions for corona viruses, as first reported by stuff.
Warriors’ chief executive Cameron George announced the “devastating” news on Wednesday.
“We have been advised that their status does not allow them to enter the country, which is devastating for us,” said George stuff.
“The children have attended school here for several years and have contributed to the economy in a variety of ways. They had the authorization to live in New Zealand with their visas, and they represent our country there in the NRL.
“But what are we going to do with them now? You are not a family in Australia and it is just another big bump on our way for 2020. ”
Ironically, 20-year-old Ravutaumada represented New Zealand and played for the school rugby league and junior kiwis.
Since Katoa and Ravutaumada were forced to leave the country due to an employment obligation, George asked the New Zealand government to rethink the duo and grant them a travel exemption.
“Before you left this country to go to Australia to do your job, you were like any New Zealand citizen,” said George.
“They have the right visas to be in New Zealand, they have everything you need to live in New Zealand, and it is easy to prove that they are here because they have been here for years and have gone to school Here.
“However, our border officials say they don’t live in New Zealand. I know by definition that they must be citizens, but three months ago they were all of the above.
“So what are we going to do? Drop them off and leave them on the shores of Australia?
“I urge the New Zealand government to review and reconsider.”
Former captain of the Black Caps, Brendon McCullum, tweeted on Wednesday evening: “It needs to be clarified! Let’s do something about these PM @jacindaardern. Never leave our own behind. “
After three victories this season, the Warriors are currently number 13 in the NRL ranking. You will face the West Tigers at the Sydney Cricket Ground this Friday night.
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