SA Rugby boss Mark Alexander unconcerned about ‘death threats’

SA Rugby president Mark Alexander has downplayed threats against him following the withdrawal of Tel Aviv Heat from the Mzansi Challenge.

SA Rugby announced on Friday, 3 February that it had withdrawn an invitation to the Tel Aviv Heat to play in the Mzansi Challenge, following “representations from multiple stakeholders”.

The Israeli rugby team reacted with anger and disappointment to SA Rugby’s decision to kick them from the Mzansi Challenge and released a statement condemning the decision, while there has been a backlash from various other groups.

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Now in another twist in this ongoing saga, Sunday newspaper Rapport reported that Alexander is taking any and all necessary precautions, as it is understood the SARU boss feels he is being followed when in public.

“Sometimes when he is driving and suspects someone is following him, he will call someone to come and get him and protect him,” a source was quoted by Rapport.

“He could have decided to lock himself in his house for fear of his life, but he goes on with his life instead. He feels that what has to happen, has to happen.”

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SA Rugby have now responded to the reports, and although Alexander did not deny the threats, he suggested “it was silly individuals expressing their anger, not to be taken seriously”.

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The Israel-based team were scheduled to compete in a competition with four other international teams and six South African provinces from next month. However, the team was advised on Friday that the invitation had been withdrawn.

The Mexican Rhinos have been earmarked to replace them, pending approval by the General Council.

Rapport also reported that insiders claims that Alexander and SA Rugby were pressured by Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa to withdraw Tel Aviv Heat’s invite.

The Mzansi Challenge kicks off on 24 March with the Diables (Spain), Simbas (Kenya), Windhoek Draught Welwitschias (Namibia), and Goshawks (Zimbabwe) joining South African provinces, Leopards, Valke, Boland Kavaliers, Eastern Province, Border Bulldogs, and SWD Eagles.

SA RUGBY RELEASED THE FOLLOWING DOMESTIC RUGBY DATES:

Currie Cup First Division & Mzanzi Challenge

Participating teams: Leopards, Valke, Boland Kavaliers, Eastern Province, Border Bulldogs, SWD Eagles [Currie Cup First Division]; Diables (Spain), Simbas (Kenya), Windhoek Draught Welwitschias (Namibia), Tel-Aviv Heat (*Now withdrawn) and Goshawks (Zimbabwe) [Mzanzi Challenge].

The highest-placed SA team will be crowned Currie Cup First Division league winners.

Opening round: 10/11 February

Mzansi Challenge Final: 17 June

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