Vodacom Bulls chief Edgar Rathbone says concerns that the franchise is forecast to break the salary cap are ‘based on a miscalculation’.

Following an underwhelming 2022-23 season, which included a run of 10 consecutive losses in all competitions and a Vodacom URC quarter-final exit, the Vodacom Bulls overhauled their coaching staff and senior squad.

A total of 12 senior players were recruited by the Vodacom Bulls ahead of the 2023-24 season, including Springbok fullback Willie le Roux and front row powerhouses Wilco Louw (Harlequins) and Akker van der Merwe (Sale Sharks), who returned to South Africa from England.

The financial implications of these heavyweight reinforcements appears to have led to concerns over the Bulls’ predicted spend, which is forecast to break SA Rugby’s salary cap for the 2023-24 season, as stipulated in the South African Rugby Industry Collective Agreement (Sarica).

The salary cap was raised from R71m to R85m ahead of this season. In addition, the franchises were given the option to contract four ‘marquee players’ outside the salary cap. SA Rugby also contributes to the salaries of Players of National Interest (Poni players).

However, speaking to SARugbymag.co.za, chief executive Rathbone said the Vodacom Bulls are well on track to come in under the salary cap.

“The forecast was based on a miscalculation on the PONI contributions and our injured players’ salaries,” Rathbone said. “Once that has been corrected, we will be under the cap before the deadline, which is in June next year.”