COVID-19

The series, which was to include a much-anticipated rematch between Tonga and New Zealand and other tests involving Samoa, PNG and the Cook Islands was originally scheduled for June.

However the Asia Pacific Rugby League Confederation said it was now looking at delivering fixtures in October and November.

Deputy Chair Greg Peters said the unprecedented measures had to be taken for the safety and well-being of players, staff and supporters.

The Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, announced the measures will be in effect for 14 days.

The Samoa Observer newspaper reported the order included the shutting down of the border for all except returning Samoan citizens.

There have been restrictions placed on public gatherings to a total of five.

Public transport is to be temporarily halted with nightclubs, restaurants and cinemas also closed.

Travel to the island of Savai'i has been limited to just three days a week.

Non-essential public servants are also having their hours reduced.

The squad, which is primarily made up of Samoan-based players, left New Zealand on Thursday and returned to the country on Monday, with new travel restrictions introduced by the New Zealand government requiring them to self-quarantine for 14 days.

Pacific Rugby Players CEO Aayden Clarke has been in contact with Samoa Rugby Union CEO Faleomavaega Vincent Fepulea'i and said it was a very tough situation.

"We can't get in front of them to spend some time doing education," he said.