Marcus Smith and James Chisholm test positive for Covid

Harlequins duo Marcus Smith (fly-half) and James Chisholm (back-row) have both tested positive for coronavirus, the club have confirmed.

The duo returned a positive test for Covid-19 via a PCR test earlier this week and have been ruled out Monday’s ‘Big Game 13’ against Northampton Saints at Twickenham.

A Harlequins statement said: “Due to health and welfare regulations all players must observe a clear graded return to match intensity fitness following a positive Covid-19 result before returning to match action.

“Unfortunately, there was not enough time for either player to pass through these protocols before Big Game 13, and are therefore unavailable for selection for this fixture.

“Both are expected fit for the club’s Gallagher Premiership fixture away to Gloucester on January 2.”

Newcastle v Sale game called off due to Covid-19

Meanwhile, Newcastle Falcons’ Premiership match against Sale Sharks, which was scheduled for Boxing Day, has been called off.

Sale returned positive Covid-19 tests overnight and a significant number of their playing squad were ruled out of the match.

After consultation, both the Professional Game Board Testing oversight group and the clubs agree that the risk is too great for the fixture to take place safely.