Limpopo Blue Bulls set record straight after claims

POLOKWANE – Following an article published in Review of April 15 to 21 on Assupol Limpopo Blue Bulls’ disappointing 110-0 loss to Golden Lions, there was harsh criticism of the team and its management.

In the article, a spectator who did not wish to be named accused the team management of alleged nepotism and favouritism and claimed that the team was not represented by players from the province.

He suggested that a new team should be selected.

Charles Van Wyk, vice-president of Assupol Limpopo Blue Bulls responded to these allegations, saying the team was guided by the South African Rugby Union’s (Saru) rules and regulations at all times.

“It is correct that we have players from other provinces and this is supported by Saru. We have six players from other provinces who signed contracts with the team, because we have to match the standard of other teams,” said Van Wyk.

He said the team had nine black players, a sign that there was no nepotism in the team or management.

“I would like to invite this fan to my office so that we can sit down and set the record straight.

“For the team to do well means we need to get players from outside to boost the team but this does not mean there are no good players in the province,” he said.

Van Wyk said the team had a development side, but they could not rely on it as it was also involved in local leagues and the league schedules sometimes clashed.

He urged rugby supporters to know the teams well to avoid making accusations.

Assupol Limpopo Blue Bulls is at the bottom of the log with six loses, no wins and no draws.