Former Springbok coach Jake White says SA Rugby may need to force Test players to stay local if franchises are to compete with Europe’s powerhouse clubs.
Speaking to Netwerk24, White warned that the current salary structures make it impossible for South African teams to consistently challenge for the Investec Champions Cup.
“Our franchises are drawing the short straw,” said White.
“There is no way a South African team, given the current salary caps, can win the Champions Cup.”
White pointed to the enormous financial gulf between South African franchises and Europe’s top clubs.
English side Bath reportedly spent around £8.5 million (about R186 million) on senior players last season, while French giants Bordeaux can reportedly stretch their budget to around €14 million (roughly R265 million).
By comparison, South Africa’s four URC franchises operate under a salary cap of R97 million, with an additional allowance for four marquee players.
White believes the weak rand means South Africa will never compete financially with the euro and pound, and says a greater premium must therefore be placed on playing for the Springboks.
“We’re going to have to think differently about this,” he said.
“You may have to require Springboks to play locally. That rule existed before in our rugby.”
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White pointed to New Zealand and Ireland as examples of countries protecting their domestic game.
“If you want to be an All Black, you play in New Zealand. It’s the same in Ireland,” he said.
“We’re also going to have to find a way to keep our top players here.”
Photo: Juan Jose Gasparini/Gallo Images
The post Jake: Make Boks play locally appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Former Springbok coach Jake White says SA Rugby may need to force Test players to stay local if franchises are to compete with Europe’s powerhouse clubs.
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