COVID-19 scare sweeps New Zealand Warriors camp ahead of Broncos clash

The hapless New Zealand Warriors have suffered another setback, with a COVID-19 scare sweeping through the camp this week.

Several players reported cold and flu like symptoms in the lead-up to tomorrow night's crunch game against fellow strugglers the Brisbane Broncos in recent days.

The players were isolated and tested as per NRL protocol - and fortunately came back clear - but the distraction was the last thing the Warriors needed in these troubled times.

Adding to their woes, the Warriors go into the game without inspirational skipper Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who has been rubbed out by the NRL judiciary.

The club has persuaded three players who wanted to return home to be with their families to remain in Australia until after the game against the Cronulla Sharks on July 19.

If the NRL cannot find a way to re-unite the players with their families before then, they will leave the camp and cross the ditch, adding to the team's problems.

The Warriors were thumped by 50 points by the Storm in interim coach Todd Payten's first game in charge last weekend and need to make a statement against the out-of-form Broncos.