Transformation group calls for boycott of Kings

Cape Town - A transformation group is dissatisfied with SA Rugby’s continued control over the EP Rugby Union’s affairs and has called on clubs and supporters to boycott the Southern Kings’ PRO14 matches.

According to the HeraldLIVE website, the Rugby Transformation Coalition (RTC) wants the boycott to continue until SA Rugby hands control of the franchise back to the EP Rugby Union (EPRU).

The decision was reportedly taken at a meeting of the Eastern Cape chapter of the RTC at the Adcock Stadium in Port Elizabeth on Monday night.

SA Rugby president Mark Alexander said a boycott would further damage the reputation of rugby in the region.

“The trouble in which the region currently finds itself was several years in the making and it will take several more months to complete the process of putting it back on its feet.”

The EPRU was liquidated last year which forced SA Rugby to step in and take control of matters, financing the Southern Kings as well as the EP Kings' Currie Cup team.

A small crowd of just over 3 000 supporters turned up to watch the Kings’ first PRO14 home game against Leinster last Saturday.