Less than 48 hours from their opening Rugby League World Cup match, under half the Kiwi Ferns have unfortunately lost their training kit and personal belongings due to smoke damage at their training facility.
New Zealand Rugby League confirmed on Tuesday (AEDT) that no player or official was present in the area affected at the time.
“This was an unfortunate incident but the problem was quickly dealt with and the training ground are in the process of bringing facilities back online," said NZRL CEO Greg Peters. "No outdoor facilities have been affected and the staff at the training ground have been exceptional in supporting us.
"In the meantime, our main priority is the Ferns' wellbeing and ensuring the team is supported through this.”
"It's been tough for the girls; some have gone well over 24 hours without being able to contact loved ones, unless through a staff member's phone," said Kiwi Ferns coach Rick Henry.
"Sometimes these freak accidents happen, and this one was out of anyone's control. NZRL are working to replace the damage, and as a team, we will rally together, support each other and focus on what's ahead."
The Kiwi Ferns will begin their World Cup campaign on Thursday (AEDT) when they take on France at LNER Community Stadium in York.
