Newcastle Eagles’ remaining 2019-20 BBL fixtures have been postponed until further notice and the remainder of the WBBL season has been cancelled.

The decisions taken today follow the Government’s advice that they would no longer support mass gatherings due to the current situation with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

This afternoon meetings were held with the BBL’s and WBBL’s boards to discuss the updated advice issued by the Government and consult with their respective owning member clubs.

In a statement published on the BBL website the league said it has “agreed a decision to postpone the 2019-20 season until further notice due to the on-going impact of these measures” and added “it is in the best interests of the sport to see out the season and that this postponement offers the best chance to do so”.

A similar statement posted by the WBBL stated that “with the deepest regret” its member clubs as a collective have taken the decision to cancel the remainder of the current season “in the best interests of the league.”

The BBL said that it will continue to monitor the situation closely and work with all its clubs and partners to explore all options to allow the continuation of the season “prudently and safely at the earliest opportunity”.

Meanwhile the WBBL are finalising the details as to what cancellation means in terms of results based on the current standings and will announce this in due course.

Both the leagues and everyone at the Newcastle Eagles would like to thank all the players, staff, volunteers and fans for their continued support this season and especially in this unprecedented situation.

Paul Blake, Newcastle Eagles Managing Director, added: “The Eagles as a family will have some very challenging times ahead and we really need everyone’s support to get us through it together.”