Straeuli's job not done at Lions

REACTION: The Golden Lions Company is optimistic that they can retain one of their most valued resources, Chief Executive Officer Rudolf Straeuli.

Recent reports have listed Straeuli and Western Province Rugby Football Union CEO Paul Zacks as being on the Blue Bulls Company's shortlist of candidates to be their new CEO.

Straeuli confirmed to @rugby365com that he has been approached by the Bulls to replace Barend van Graan as CEO of the Pretoria franchise.

"I did not apply," he told this website, but declined to comment on his future.

Altmann Allers, Golden Lions Rugby Union vice-president, also confirmed the offer, saying that Straeuli must make a decision that is in his own best interest.

"I will respect his decision, whatever that may be," Allers told @rugby365com.

"I have worked closely with Rudolf and he has done excellent work as CEO here over the last four years."

However, Allers said Straeuli still has a lot of work to do at the Lions.

"There are still few boxes to be ticked here at the Lions and I would be delighted if Rudolf can help us tick those boxes," said the Glasfit owner, who through Foxbell Investments, obtained a 49.9 percent equity shareholding in the Lions Rugby Company in 2011.

"It does not surprise me that the Bulls are interested in his services, because he is someone who demands respect in South African rugby and he'll be a huge asset for any province."

Allers said he does not believe money will play a role in Straeuli's decision.

He added that more clarity on Straeuli's future will be forthcoming later this month.

By Jan de Koning

@king365ed

@rugby365com

* The latest from the Springbok camp!