Bulldogs Star Jake Averillo In Isolation After Virus Scare At Western Sydney Pub

Canterbury Bulldogs centre Jake Averillo has been forced into isolation following another coronavirus scare for the NRL.

19-year-old Averillo, who has since been stood down from training by the Bulldogs, was caught up in a potential COVID-19 outbreak after it was revealed his parents had dinner at the Crossroads Hotel in western Sydney earlier this month.

Today, New South Wales health officials confirmed 13 new coronavirus cases in Sydney - all of which could be traced back to the hotel where the Bulldogs rookie's family dined on July 3.

Averillo, who lives at home with his family, is now being tested along with hundreds of other patrons.

With his parents expected to undergo coronavirus tests on Monday too, it's understood the Canterbury ace will remain in isolation until at least July 19.

The news comes not long after Stefano Utoikamanui was stood down for breaching the NRL's biosecurity protocols in Parramatta's Sunday night win over the Newcastle Knights.

The Eels youngster was seen embracing friends and family members in the stands at full-time before a member of Parramatta staff quickly intervened.

While the NRL initially seemed to relax rules, it appears the recent spike in cases across the country has officials cracking down even harder.

Topics: Coronavirus, nrl, Australia

Max Sherry

Max Sherry is a journalist for SPORTbible Australia. After migrating Down Under from London as a teenager, he instantly fell in love with Aussie sport and its culture. From NRL to AFL, cricket to rugby — you name it, Max watches it (with a beer in hand, of course). During his time at Fox Sports, he worked in the football department covering the Premier League, A-League, Socceroos and Matildas. Born a stone's throw away from West Ham's training ground, Max is obviously a die-hard Liverpool fan.

@maxysherry