The future of the 2023 Mzansi Challenge has been cast into doubt after the South African Rugby Union (Saru) confirmed the withdrawal of Spanish team Diables amid reports of poor communication from the governing body.

The Mzansi Challenge is due to kick off on March 24 with the final set for June 17.

The six Currie Cup First Division outfits were set to be joined by five international sides in the inaugural competition – the Diables, Simbas (Kenya), Welwitschias (Namibia), Tel Aviv Heat (Israel) and Goshawks (Zimbabwe).

But, in a brief statement yesterday, Saru said: “Media are advised that the Diables from Spain have informed SA Rugby of their withdrawal from the 2023 Mzansi Challenge, which is scheduled to start at the end of March, due to logistical challenges.

“The provisional fixtures will be updated in due course and will be [made] available. Please note that all fixtures are subject to change.”

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This follows after SARU’s controversial decision on February 3 to withdraw its invitation to Tel Aviv Heat from the event, and earmarked the Mexican Rhinos to replace the Israeli team, pending approval by the general council.

According to Rugby365’s website, a ‘lack of communication’ by Saru has been the biggest challenge for the competing teams.

“We want to remain part of the competition,” Goshawks team manager Takunda Chifokoyo told Rugby365.

“[But] we can do with better and more transparent communication. We want to be compliant and come back to communication.

“Some feedback would alleviate some of the stresses. I don’t know if Saru’s resources are stretched or what the problems are,” Chifokoyo added.

“I can’t even go to my union, because they are not the organisers. We will honour that process, if only we knew what they [Saru] want.”