South Africa’s leading clubs have made their feelings clear on a possible exit from the Investec Champions Cup.
According to Rapport, the Vodacom Bulls, Stormers and Sharks are all against such a move.
Speculation around South Africa’s future in Europe intensified this week after SA Rugby confirmed it will conduct a major review into player workload.
One option believed to be under consideration is the withdrawal of South African teams from the Champions Cup.
MORE: SA to exit Champions Cup?
However, the SA clubs are reportedly dead set against such a move, believing that player well-being can be ensured in other ways.
“We as the Stormers have ambitions for the European Champions Cup,” Stormers CEO Johan le Roux told Rapport.
“We really hope other solutions are found for the issue of player well-being than withdrawing from the Champions Cup.”
According to Rapport, the Bulls and Sharks agree with Le Roux.
The Stormers, Bulls and Lions have qualified for next season’s Champions Cup, with the Sharks and Cheetahs set to compete in the second-tier Challenge Cup.
SA RUGBY CEO: Global season needs compromise
In a statement on Saturday, SA Rugby confirmed it will host a workshop in July involving union presidents, CEOs and coaches to discuss player welfare and the structure of the domestic and international season.
The governing body acknowledged concerns around the current schedule, with many Springboks effectively playing rugby year-round due to URC, EPCR and Test commitments.
“Any speculation or predictions as to the outcomes are premature,” the statement said.
“The views of all internal stakeholders will be canvassed and workshopped on the domestic and international playing calendar for South African players, which currently sees SA teams in action in every month of the year.
“Should consensus be reached on a potential revision of the calendar, any contractual or constitutional requirements to affect such a revision will be observed.”
WORLD RUGBY CEO: Springbok schedule not sustainable
SA Rugby president Mark Alexander has previously warned that the current calendar places “enormous pressure” on leading Springboks, echoing concerns raised by World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin.
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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