Currie Cup crisis averted
November 5, 2002
The crisis threatening the new look Currie Cup has been averted by SA Rugby. There had been fears that the new system, that excludes eight of the 14 Currie Cup unions into a second division, would be scuppered by rebel unions Eastern Province, Border, Griquas and North West who believe it to be unfair, However, the Board of SA Rugby (Pty) Ltd confirmed that the new format agreed for the Bankfin-Currie Cup competition in 2003 will remain. After careful consideration and taking into account all implications, the Board was convinced that the strength versus strength principle and strategy was the correct route to follow for South African rugby. The approval given to the format in June this year will therefore be upheld. In 2003, the Bankfin-Currie Cup will comprise a Premier Division of six teams and a First Division of eight teams. However, with due regard to some of the concerns raised, the Board has agreed that it will evaluate various options that could be employed from 2004 without compromising the strength versus strength format. These options would focus on concerns regarding the teams in the First Division. Managing Director Rian Oberholzer will report back to the Board at its meeting on 11 December 2002. The rebels do have an alternative. They can call a special meeting of the Sarfu general council to try to reverse the restructuring. The council, which has 51 voting members, will then have to vote on the issue. |
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