Bulls president Willem Strauss has requested a strategic workshop involving all key role players to address SA Rugby’s competition structures.
In a letter to SA Rugby, Strauss said the move away from Super Rugby to the nothern hemisphere has created “many challenges” for the local game, particularly in terms of scheduling, commercial sustainability and player welfare.
According to Rapport, he highlighted the following issues for urgent discussion:
- The unsustainable 12-month rugby season currently expected of URC franchises.
- Alignment between the franchises and SA Rugby around World Rugby’s new 30-match limit per player.
- Reviewing the SA Cup format (single round, one-and-a-half round or double round).
- Creating an SA Cup competition that can become an exciting product for sponsors and broadcasters.
- Ensuring Currie Cup Premier Division participation for teams is guaranteed for two years, while also creating a Currie Cup First Division that can attract commercial interest.
- Reviewing and aligning the domestic rugby calendar – including the European Champions Cup, United Rugby Championship, Currie Cup, junior and amateur competitions.
- Expanding the women’s rugby base and pipeline through new initiatives.
ACKERS: Co-operation crucial for 30-match cap
“I have been studying successful leagues such as the NRL and NFL for decades, and they all have the same deals and trends,” Strauss wrote. “Our local game has not taken the step forward like the Springboks, as evidenced by declining match attendance. Our clients are overwhelmed.”
In his response, SA Rugby president Mark Alexander acknowledged the concerns, calling them “critical areas that warrant strategic alignment”.
He proposed placing the topic on the agenda of the next presidents’ forum, followed by a dedicated strategic workshop.
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