Craig Fitzgibbon‘s NRL coaching debut has been put on hold, with the Cronulla coach to miss the Round One match against Canberra after testing positive to COVID-19.
The Sharks have confirmed the news in a statement, which says Fitzgibbon likely contracted the virus from a family member.
A rapid antigen test earlier this week returned a positive result.
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Assistant coaches Steve Price, Josh Hannay and Daniel Holdsworth will steer the ship against the Raiders.
“After a carefully planned pre-season, most of the preparations are complete and we have three more than capable coaches to take care of the group for a couple of days,” Fitzgibbon said.
“Steve, Josh and DJ will relay the final instructions and get the boys ready for Canberra on Friday.
“Obviously the timing of this isn’t ideal, you can take all the precautions as I have in following NRL Apollo advice and protocols, but with four children at home unfortunately it has caught up with our family at an inopportune time.
“My health is fine and symptoms mild, I look forward to getting back amongst the group next week and I will be in constant communications with the coaches and players.”
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