Rugby team that set off 111 days ago finally home

A professional rugby union team that set off for an away match on 23 February has finally made it home.

Manuma Samoa left their Pacific island for an away match in Perth, Australia, 111 days ago.

But on their way home in March they were forced to quarantine in New Zealand – and then, while waiting for the quarantine to end, their home country closed its borders entirely.

In Auckland, while waiting for the border to reopen, the squad lived in a church compound for three months – with 20 players sharing one room.

They arrived back in Samoa two weeks ago, but were then forced into a 14-day quarantine away from their homes.

But at midday, the players and management – none of whom ever caught the virus – were finally allowed to see their families.

“It’s the best feeling ever,” team manager Tuala Pat Leota told the BBC.