Tyrone have pulled out of next Saturday's All-Ireland SFC semi-final against Kerry due to the Covid-19 crisis which has rocked the camp.

It means that, as it stands, Kerry will receive a bye into the All-Ireland final on September 4 against the winners of this evening’s clash between Dublin and Mayo at Croke Park (throw-in 6pm).

Tyrone had requested a two-week postponement of their semi-final, which had originally been scheduled for tomorrow afternoon, due to the number of Covid cases in the squad but Croke Park granted just a six-day deferment.

In a statement released this afternoon, the Tyrone GAA Management Committee revealed that the Ulster champions would not be fulfilling the postponed fixture against the Kingdom after having considered expert medical advice.

"This morning, the Tyrone GAA Management Committee has decided that it is not in a position to field its senior football team in the rescheduled All-Ireland football championship semi-final in Croke Park, on next Saturday," said the Tyrone GAA statement.

"Having received expert medical opinion on the existing, and future health and welfare of the players who contracted the Covid-19 virus during the period of this last two weeks, and following consultation with the team's management, this decision has been made with the greatest reluctance, and with deep regret.

"It is acknowledged that the decision taken will cause major disappointment and significant inconvenience for the Association, in general, the GAA fraternity of Kerry, and especially for Tyrone's patrons and supporters, but the welfare and safety of players has been the over-riding factor in all considerations of this difficult situation."

The Red Hands’ decision to concede the semi-final now throws the All-Ireland series into some disarray, as GAA chiefs are now left with an unprecedented dilemma over how to proceed with the competition from here.

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Tyrone GAA management committee decide not to field a team in the All Ireland Semi Final. pic.twitter.com/xwJhT4rXrp

— Darran Marshall (@DarranMarshall) August 14, 2021

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