A number of members of the South African Rugby Union (Saru) management committee have filed a notice of motion to set aside the resolution of the Presidents Council taken at a meeting on April 15 in Durban regarding the Super 14 franchises.
After ”intensive deliberation”, the chairperson Dr Theunie Lategan, Andre Markgraaff, Mike Stofile, Dolf van Huyssteen and JAA Basson put forward the motion.
Saru president Brian van Rooyen has called a special meeting of the Presidents Council in Johannesburg on Saturday.
”We recognise the strong views that have been expressed in recent days, particularly those of the Minister of Sport and Recreation. Out of respect for him and his position, I believe this matter merits further debate,” Van Rooyen said.
”Under my leadership, SA Rugby has identified and sustained two clear goals: Transparency and transformation. I believe it is entirely consistent with these principles that this important issue becomes the subject of further consideration.”
The deliberations delayed a media conference by three hours in Durban on April 15 before Saru announced a reshuffle in provincial affiliations in the enlarged Super 14 competition for the next three years.
Saru awarded the fifth franchise to the Central Unions — Free State, Griqualand West and the Griffons.
However, the other franchises were also affected, most notably the controversial inclusion of Eastern Province with the Blue Bulls in Pretoria.
The awarding of the franchise to the Central Unions differed with a government ”request” that it be given to the Eastern Province in order to assist with transformation. – Sapa