Cardiff finally on their way back from South Africa

Cardiff Rugby are finally returning home after four attempts to leave South Africa after the recent discovery of the new Covid-19 Omicron variant.

The 42-strong member squad and staff were due to depart Cape Town on Thursday but failed to do so after a landing slot was withdrawn.

Some staying behind

The whole travelling group has returned negative coronavirus tests apart from six individuals who tested positive and are isolating in a South African quarantine hotel.

On Friday morning, a tweet from the club’s social media account confirmed their return home.

Another tweet thanked those who assisted and read: “Thank you to everyone who has played a part in securing our return to the UK and to our friends in South Africa for looking after us. Diolch.”

The club had three failed attempts to leave South Africa after the country had been placed on the UK travel red list.

Initially, Cardiff was unable to gain clearance from Civil Aviation Authority due to the UK and European Union border closures. The plane could not leave during the period required to avoid quarantine upon return.

The Welsh side was set to join Scarlets, Munster, and Zebre in a Dublin-bound flight Sunday afternoon.

However, two tests returned positive, one suspected to be the new Omicron variant.

ITV Wales claimed the situation significantly impacted the squad’s mental health, with some players suffering from panic attacks.

Upon arrival in the UK, the travelling squad will undertake their 10-day isolation period in England, putting their opening Heineken Champions Cup games against Toulouse and Harlequins in question.

Cardiff director of rugby Dai Young said his team will “do everything in our power” to compete in those fixtures.