The squad were quarantined after another passenger had a positive COVID test upon arrival on their flight from Doha to Tokyo, and the SA side were considered candidates for close contacts due to their seats on the plane.

The South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) confirmed that following a process of review and thorough assessment of the circumstances, 17 of the 18 squad members are no longer deemed close contacts, and were cleared to continue participation for the Games under the same guidelines as other participants.

One management member, Ashley Evert, was deemed to be a close contact and will remain in quarantine under the revised guidelines. He will join up with the squad at the Olympic Village in Tokyo, once cleared following the relevant COVID protocols.

The team now travel to Kagoshima City to start their final preparations for the tournament, scheduled for 26-28 July at Tokyo Stadium.