The Mzansi Rugby League has cancelled its trials following Saru’s threat to expel players from all Saru leagues and competitions.
The first of the MRL trials had been scheduled to take place at Northwood Crusaders Sports Club in Durban North on 5 July, with players charged a R899 trial fee.
On 24 April, Saru issued a statement warning players registered with a Saru entity against participating in the trials.
On Monday, MLR co-founder and chief commercial officer Calvin Smith announced that the league would no longer stage trials.
“After engaging with players across South Africa, one concern consistently came up: If I attend MRL trials and I’m not selected, will I still be able to play rugby in South Africa?’
“As a result, the MRL has made the decision not to proceed with open nationwide trials for season one.
“This decision was made to ensure players are not placed in positions of uncertainty while pursuing professional opportunities.
“There is an ongoing legal process relating to these matters and the league will not comment further at this time.
“All paid trialists have been refunded.
“The league will now begin engaging players and their representatives directly regarding opportunities within the MRL.”
Planned to kick off in 2027, the 16-team MRL aims to span nine provinces and become “the new home for South Africa’s next generation of talent”, offering salaries between R15,000 and R30,000 per month along with full medical aid coverage.
MORE: ‘Baby Kriel’ making waves in SA rugby
Matthew Kriel, the younger brother of Springbok centre Jesse, was in February appointed head of recruitment for the MRL.
The post SA rebel league scraps trials appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
The Mzansi Rugby League has cancelled its trials following Saru’s threat to expel players from all Saru leagues and competitions.
The post SA rebel league scraps trials appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
