Unauthorised Participation in Rugby Trials: SA Rugby’s Stance on Unaffiliated Leagues SA Rugby has confirmed that players who participate in trials for unaffiliated rugby organisations, such as the Mzansi Rugby League, will not be eligible to represent any team under the South African Rugby Union (SARU) banner. This includes club, provincial, and national teams. The confirmation comes amid growing concerns over unauthorised engagements by breakaway leagues that falsely imply affiliation with SARU. According to SARU’s official communication to all Presidents and Chief Executive Officers, the union holds the exclusive mandate to promote, develop, regulate, and support all levels of rugby within the Republic. Organisations like the Mzansi Rugby League do not meet the criteria for membership or associate membership as defined in Clause 10 of SARU’s Constitution, and therefore have no locus standi to operate under SARU’s auspices. SARU highlighted that the Mzansi Rugby League’s recent actions—including unauthorised engagement with SARU members and the creation of a website falsely referencing a partnership with the union—constitute a breach of governance protocols. Although the misleading website was temporarily removed, it has since been restored, raising ongoing concerns about misrepresentation. Players attending trials for the Mzansi Rugby League are required to pay a non-refundable fee of R 899.00. SARU has warned that no refunds will be issued under any circumstances, including change of mind, inability to attend, personal emergencies, travel or accommodation issues, or injury prior to the trial date. The league promotes the opportunity to play rugby full-time, promising earnings between R15,000 and R30,000 per month with premium medical aid covered, though SARU does not recognise these trials or any subsequent participation as valid within its sanctioned structures. The union reiterated that only competitions and activities authorised by SARU carry full eligibility for player selection at all levels. Participation in unaffiliated leagues risks excluding athletes from representing South Africa in international competition or playing for provincially contracted teams. For athletes considering rugby trials, SARU advises verification through official channels to ensure events are sanctioned and compliant with national regulations. Engaging with unaffiliated organisations may result in ineligibility for SARU-affiliated teams, regardless of performance or potential. SA Rugby continues to monitor the situation and urges stakeholders to uphold the integrity of the sport by adhering to established governance frameworks. Players are encouraged to pursue opportunities only through SARU-recognised pathways to safeguard their eligibility and long-term development in the sport.
23