Kings: New contract shocker

On the day that the South African Rugby Players Association started sending letters to players informing them that they will NOT be offered contracts by the South African Rugby Union-controlled Kings, the first player confirmed that he will be taking legal action against the Eastern Province Rugby Union.

Michael van Vuuren issued a statement in which he confirmed he will go the legal route.

rugby365 can also reveal that SARPA have started sending letters to the players who will not be offered contracts by SARU - believed to be the bulk of the current Kings squad.

SARU has instead opted make use of Sevens and Under-20 players to fill the bulk of the Super Rugby squad, after taking control over from the near bankrupt EPRU last month.

Only a very small number of the current Kings will receive contract offers from SARU.

However, the players on Monday opted for a show of solidarity when they presented a petition to EPRU President Cheeky Watson.

The SARPA letters is just latest shocker in the escalating crisis in the Eastern Cape franchise.

rugby365 has a copy of the letters being sent out, but have opted to protect the player's identity.

The letter reads: "Dear XXXXXX,

"We have now been informed the names of the players that will be offered contracts to play Super Rugby.

"Charl Crous [Kings CEO] has not been able to phone all the players whom will not be offered contracts yet and we believe it is critical that you are informed that you have not been identified to be offered a contract.

"We share your disappointment, but it is important that you consider other employment opportunities with immediate effect. If you have an agent you must inform him immediately.

"As part of our assistance to you we would like to have an individual discussion with you to look at your individual circumstances and discuss ways and means to address such requirements and needs.

"We are planning to conduct such sessions Thursday evening and Friday during the day. Please indicate if you would like to attend such session in order for us to schedule it accordingly.

"It will also be an opportunity to complete and submit your documents for taking legal action against EP Kings for your arrear salary and future losses.

"Regards."

The letters were sent by SARPA CEO Piet Heymans.

He was contacted for comment and rugby365 will publish his comments as soon as they are received.

Meanwhile it appears Van Vuuren wont be the only player going the legal route.

Michael van Vuuren's official statement: "I refer to the nonpayment of monies due to me for the months of October and November of this year and the present impasse between the executive of Eastern Province Rugby and the players.

"Unfortunately I am no longer in a position to accept nonpayment of monies due to me and the present climate of uncertainty.

"These monies are the life blood of my existence.

"Approximately 19 months ago I relocated from France to return to my country and the province and city I grew up in.

"I did so with my fiance in tow and with the intention of representing my province at Super Rugby and Currie Cup level.

"I was proud and excited by my return to Nelson Mandela bay and looked forward to committing to Eastern Province rugby.

"However the events of this year have left me disillusioned.

"Notwithstanding frequent nonpayment and or late payment, I have remained committed, loyal and hopeful that the executive would resolve sponsorship issues and thereby ensure regular payment of monies due to the players and I. Despite a petition and a plea from the players, it is now clear to me that the executive cannot resolve the issues. Liquidation is held over my head and that in a sea of uncertainty.

"The nonpayment of monies due to me for October and November have left me financially embarrassed.

"I am no longer in a position to rely upon my friends and my family.

"The shroud of mystery that surrounds the sponsorship issue, the broken promises and continued financial issues as well as the constant reference to liquidation has rendered my position untenable.

"Unfortunately the executive is in material breach of my contract and in the circumstances I have no choice but to cancel my contract and exercise my legal remedies.

"I reserve all my rights including the right to amplify this letter and the reasons for my decision.

"This matter is now in the hands of my legal representatives.

"This has not been an easy decision as I had committed to a future in the Eastern Cape. I stood for something I believe in, and I can hold my head up high. I'm not sure what my future looks like but I know who holds my future. I wish the players, and the region well.

"Michael van Vuuren."

By Jan de Koning

@rugby365com