Coronavirus: Highlanders bracing for financial blow of no Super Rugby

The Highlanders are back from Argentina and straight into self-isolation, as their season from hell takes a new turn.

Not only are they losing on the field, but Newshub understands they're also taking a massive hit off it, due to Super Rugby's suspension.

After losing several All Blacks in the off-season, they've won just one of their opening five games and are now copping a devastating financial blow.

"When you start cancelling things and there's a cost, we haven't had a chance to quantify that exactly at this stage," said Highlanders' chief executive Roger Clark. "But it's going to be significant."

And there's no relief in sight, given insurance won't cover terrorist attacks or illness. 

With so much uncertainty, it's no wonder the players are feeling unsettled.

"Everybody handles things differently and some of them are feeling the stress, but at the end of the day, our job is to make sure we provide the support they need," said Clark.

The Highlanders have endured a rough few weeks.
The Highlanders have endured a rough few weeks. Photo credit: Getty

While the returning players go into lockdown, remaining squad members are hitting the gym and hope they can get back on the field soon.

Given the franchise's precarious position, the resumption of Super Rugby couldn't come quick enough.

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