The Gold Coast SUNS Round 11 fixture against Hawthorn will not take place in Darwin.

Due to the current COVID outbreak in Victoria, the Northern Territory Government has closed its borders to the Greater Melbourne & Bendigo local government areas.

“While we understand and respect the decision, we are disappointed we won’t be able to host our second annual, Sir Doug Nicholls Round game in Darwin,” Gold Coast SUNS Chief Executive Mark Evans said.

“I want to thank everyone who has worked hard preparing for the match and the local community for getting right behind it. I especially want to thank the NT Government, AFLNT, NT Major Events Company, Larrakia Nation and NT Carbine Club.

“Our Territory partnership means much more to us than just a game. We have had AFL and AFLW players and staff in town all week visiting schools and supporting local footy to help grow the game and promote healthy, active lifestyles.

“We will now work with all parties involved to find a way to play our annual Darwin fixture later in the year."

The SUNS Round 11 fixture against Hawthorn has been relocated to the SCG at 7.40pm on Saturday.