Kings accused of 'illegal' poaching
The Eastern Province Kings once again finds themselves at loggerheads with another union, with the Leopards accusing them of illegally poaching talented young players.
The Leopards Rugby Union revealed that two of their star players - Luther Obi and Sylvian Mahuza - are currently with the EP Kings in Port Elizabeth, despite having signed legitimate contracts with the LRU until October 31.
The duo, Obi and Mahuza, are also members of the Varsity Cup runners-up team NWU-Pukke and are scheduled to feature in their opening round match, against the Port Elizabeth-based Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, in Potchefstroom.
"There can be no doubt that the players are contracted with the LRU until October 31," the Leopards said in a statement, adding: "It is the LRU's opinion that not only are they entitled to keep the players to their contracts but also that they intend to do so.
According to media reports the EP Kings were assured by the players' agent, Jaco du Plessis, that the players have no binding contracts.
"These allegations are currently being investigated by the LRU, with the intention to lay a formal complaint with the South African Rugby Union in due course," the Leopards said.
According to the LRU these two players were part of a group of three young players identified as early as 2012, while they were still Under-19, with whom contracts were signed until October 31 this year.
"Right from the outset emphasis was placed on the players' studies and was this always a priority with the LRU and the players," the statement said.
"The players were also provided every opportunity to develop their professional careers and since October 2014 formed part of the Lions Super Rugby squad.
"Sylvian Mahuza was a favourite to be included in the final squad of the Lions.
"The LRU have already consulted with senior counsel in order to enforce their rights in terms of the contracts which will include arbitration and may entail an interim interdict to prevent the players from playing for any other union than the LRU.
"Their attorneys have been informed accordingly.
The Leopards revealed that they were approached by the EP Kings to consider a commercial solution and to release the players from their LRU contracts in order to be available for the EP Kings against payment of a transfer fee.
These discussions are ongoing between the President of the LRU André May and the president of the EP Kings Cheeky Watson, but there are certain fundamental principles which the LRU insist to be included in any final settlement agreement.
"We are confident that the matter will be resolved, but there should be no doubt that if it is not resolved, we are willing to take the legal route," May said.
"We believe that all role players, including unions, players and agents should take responsibility for their actions. If the agent transgressed the SARU code of conduct for agents we intend to formally lay a charge at SARU," May added.