None of the seven Fijian players in the Barbarians squad were among the 12 that had breached the COVID-19 code of conduct.

This was confirmed yesterday by Fiji Rugby Union chief executive officer John O’Connor.

“I’ve not been briefed on whether the Barbarians versus England game is going on,” O’Connor said.

In a press release, the Barbarians FC had indicated that they are extremely disappointment at the actions of the 12 players who are now dropped from the team.

“The COVID-19 code of conduct was signed by every player and officials before they join the team,” stated the release.

“Due to the ongoing discussion we are not able to release the name of the players involved.”

The players involved in Wednesday night’s unauthorised excursion were kept separate from the rest of the Barbarians squad on their return to the hotel.

Although the team are due to be tested for coronavirus again before Sunday’s match at Twickenham, the Rugby Football Union stated it would “not be possible to guarantee that these players are not infectious in the period up to and including the match”.

The Barbarians squad for the fixture is largely a mix of English-based players and Fijians.

Former England captain Chris Robshaw and veteran Saracens and England scrum-half Richard Wigglesworth are among the selection.

The Fijian players in the squad are Serupepeli Vularika, Manueli Ratuniyarawa, Simione Kuruvoli, Samuela Tawake, Haereiti Hetet, Rusiate Nasove and Tevita Ikanivere.

The Barbarians is coached by Flying Fijians head coach Vern Cotter and his assistant Glen Jackson.

The build-up to Barbarians games is famous for its focus on socialising and the team management installed a team-room in their London base to keep the players entertained.

Meanwhile, burly Fijian winger Nemani Nadolo is among players who have offered to join the Barbarians.

The Leicester Tigers winger who has played for the Barbarians twice, took to social media to offer his services.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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