The announcement of South Africa’s move to level 2 lockdown regulations poses a few interesting points for local rugby in Potchefstroom.
Nationally, SA Rugby is currently pursuing plans to host a domestic Currie Cup-type competition in mid-September by possibly using a bio-bubble with no spectators at matches.
Something similar is happening in England, with Test cricket matches being hosted with success under the same circumstances.
Level 2 restrictions in South Africa allow for sports to take place in empty stadiums – but the question is whether local clubs can host matches and ensure the safety of players against Covid-19. Financially, it would cost a lot of money to have all protocols in place, especially for a contact sport like rugby. SA Rugby CEO, Jurie Roux, confirmed that the governing body hopes to play its first domestic matches by early to mid- September, but that would most likely still include the bigger unions (Currie Cup Premier Division) at this point.
By and large, it feels like rugby will only return to Potchefstroom in 2021 and that would be the safer and better long-term option. Yes, training could be permitted – but hosting empty-stadium matches would still need a lot of planning as it stands.
