Pacific players

The Fijian Latui are scheduled to host their season-opener match in Suva against the Shanghai-based China Lions on 14 March but the Fiji government has banned non-citizens who have been in mainland China within 14 days of their intended travel.

Rapid Rugby CEO Mark Evans is positive games will go ahead, with alternative plans expected to be announced this week.

In an explosive development days out from Israel Folau's attempt to save his multi-million-dollar career at an RA code of conduct hearing, Queensland Reds and Wallabies prop Taniela Tupou took to Facebook to express his support for the under-fire superstar.

"Seriously? Might as well sack me and all the other Pacific Islands rugby players around the world because we have the same Christian beliefs," Tupou posted.

"I will never apologise for my faith and what i believe in, religion had nothing to do with rugby anyways."

World Rugby introduced tough sanctions on high tackles earlier this month in a bid to improve player safety.

Leo feels the new regulations may compromise the traditional strengths of players from the Pacific Islands, who are renowned for their physicality.

"My main concern is it will eventually restrict our employment opportunities," Leo told BBC 5 live.

"There are long-term implications that these laws could have, not just on us as individuals, but on our economies long term."