Why Leeds Rhinos are back in training - but it might not be for long

Rhinos’ players have been told to stay away since rugby league was shut down eight days ago because of the coronavirus pandemic, but small group sessions in the gym at the club’s Kirkstall training complex began yesterday.

Coach Richard Agar said the club have been following strict government guidelines, with only five players allowed in the facility at one time.

Those sessions will end if the authorities order a lockdown and people are instructed to stay at home.

“We’re not sure how long even working under these regulations is going to go on for,” Agar admitted.

“It is changing daily, but it is really challenging to try and service all these players.

“Some of them have got different issues why they can’t come in, we’ve got a pregnant wife in there and other different reasons.”

Players have been keeping in touch via social media, but yesterday was the first time they were able to get together for more than a week.

With their game at Catalans Dragons 10 days ago being postponed, Rhinos - who should have been in derby action away to fierce rivals Castleford Tigers on Thursday - have not played for almost three weeks.

The sport has been suspended until at least Friday, April 3 and that is likely to be extended.

With no indication as to when rugby will resume, Agar said: “We want to keep their strength up and their fitness.

“Players get cabin fever very easily and they like the contact with each other, but the guidelines are very, very strict about distancing and the methods and care we have to take in terms of disinfecting everything.

“It is a fairly big operation just to get the squad through an hour’s weights session.

“We will do what we can, for as long as we can.”

Rhinos director of rugby Kevin Sinfield stressed players’ health and safety remains the number one priority.

He said: “It’s really controlled, to look after everybody.

“We are doing everything we can to keep everybody safe and well.”