Brexit 'not of much help' to SA Rugby

Cape Town - South African rugby is unlikely to gain advantage from Britain’s exit from the European Union.

There was initial hope that Britain’s Brexit decision could halt the number of local rugby players seeking greener pastures abroad.

But according to Eduard Kelder, a local player agent, the decision is unlikely to discourage South African players to move abroad.

“Brexit will in no way alleviate South African rugby’s biggest headache,” Kelder told Netwerk24.

“We sometimes forget than Britain is not really the biggest ‘export market’ for South African players. There are only about 15 players who play in England’s Premiership. It’s relatively few compared to France.”

Another local agent, who spoke on condition of anonymity, agreed with Kelder.

“The South African Rugby Union does not have to worry about Britain’s influence on our players’ movements. France and Japan are the biggest threats. Due to France’s EU-membership there are few bureaucratic restrictions placed on South African players who want to go and ‘work’ in that country.”

While Brexit may not be of much help to SA Rugby, cricket could benefit more... READ the full story on Netwerk24.