SA Rugby look to restructure local rugby competitions

Plans to restructure local rugby competitions are currently under discussion in the wake of the recent measures introduced to deal with the Covid-19 pandemic, SA Rugby announced on Wednesday.

These plans could see South African franchises and other provincial teams return to a new, locally-based competition in view of the current suspension of Super Rugby and the Pro 14.

SA Rugby CEO Jurie Roux has confirmed the national rugby body is in ongoing discussions with stakeholders about a number of competition models that could be implemented.

“SA Rugby is currently evaluating all our competition structures, with a view to restructuring it in the interim so that we are able to afford the game time to all our franchise and provincial teams,” said Roux.

“Obviously, nothing can happen in the next few weeks until the ‘period of social distancing’, as instructed by President Cyril Ramaphosa, has lapsed.

“We are considering local derby matches between our South African teams. We must still drill into the specifics, but we are confident we will be able to put a feasible plan on the table that will be suitable for everyone.

“These are extraordinary times which call for extraordinary measures and it also offers us an opportunity to be innovative.

“We are working closely with our broadcast partner, SuperSport, and other important stakeholders and will announce plans once we are in a position to do so,” Roux added.

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