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Cape Town - Rob Kempson, who coached the EP Kings in the Currie Cup Qualifiers, says it will be “almost impossible” for the team to compete in the Currie Cup Premier Division.
Kempson, a former Springbok prop, was reacting to news that a possible sponsor for the union had pulled out.
According to Netwerk24, the EP Rugby Union on Tuesday officially withdrew a business rescue plan in the Port Elizabeth High Court where a final decision on liquidation of the union will be made on August 4.
SA Rugby took control of the Southern Kings in Super Rugby this year, but the Currie Cup side contested as amateurs.
The EP Kings finished 14th in the Currie Cup Qualifiers, winning just two out of 14 matches. However, because of their Super Rugby status, they automatically qualify for the Currie Cup Premier Division.
“It will now be almost impossible to be able to field a competitive EP Kings team in the Currie Cup," said Kempson.
“Even if the Kings were to play in the First Division, it would be demanding.”
Kempson will not coach the Kings in the Premier Division as he will return to his job as manager of the EP Rugby Academy.
“There are no players with contracts at the EP Rugby Union and the few who remained after the Southern Kings’ campaign in Super Rugby are also off to other teams.”
