‘The quantity that we’re asking for is just too small, contemplating the income they’ll generate,” mentioned Mark Alexander.
Amid stories that unions are up in arms over SA Rugby’s request of R85-million to host six Springbok Test matches this 12 months, the organisation’s president, Mark Alexander, has defended their stance, saying the quantity they’re asking for is small in comparison with what the unions will acquire.
Alexander mentioned on Tuesday SA Rugby had been shocked to search out out by the media that the unions are looking for authorized recommendation about what SA Rugby have tabled for the internet hosting of Test matches.
According to News24, the rugby physique are mentioned to be asking for a complete of R85-million from the six internet hosting unions, whereas the respective unions get to maintain the remainder of the income from internet hosting their respective Tests.
‘We are more than generous’
The Lions and Western Province are being requested to contribute R20-million every for the suitable to host the Tests between the Boks and All Blacks.
From July’s matches in opposition to Ireland (two Tests) and Portugal, SA Rugby are wanting for R35-million with the Bulls and Sharks anticipated to cough up R15-million every with the Cheetahs to pay R5-million. R10-million is predicted from the Pumas for internet hosting Argentina.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Alexander was bullish when requested concerning the charges matter, saying the rugby physique are being beneficiant to their members.
“We strategically allocated Tests to our unions, the ones with the stadiums. That was done to boost their season ticket (sales), and hospitality suites as well as to assist them in generating additional revenue,” mentioned Alexander.
“This normal is exclusive as a result of we’re the one worldwide rugby union that allocates Tests to a member union.
“Internationally, look at what the Test revenue is bringing for organisations like the RFU (England), who last year generated £48-million, and the Irish Rugby Union, €43-million, and Wales £48-million. So, we are more than generous to assist our franchises in generating additional funds,” he mentioned.
Talks to be held
SA Rugby and its member unions will meet on Thursday in Johannesburg to debate the matter.
“We are having a meeting with our members at the Members Forum on Thursday and we’ll talk about this because it’s unique,” mentioned Alexander.
“For the unions to complain about the Test guarantee; there is a cost involved, and the number that we are asking for is too small, considering the revenue they can generate,” Alexander mentioned.
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