Stadium problems for SARU

Rugby and football bosses to discuss potential fixture clashes

By Rachel Griffiths   Last updated: 2nd February 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Stadium problems for SARU

Hoskins: Will meet World Cup bosses

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South African Rugby Union president Oregan Hoskins will meet with 2010 World Cup bosses to discuss stadium concerns ahead of the Super 14 final.

This year's final is scheduled for May 29, the day after football's world governing body FIFA are due to take control of all the grounds used for the World Cup in South Africa, many of which are Super Rugby team grounds.

South African side Blue Bulls hosted the Super 14 final last year as the highest-seeded team to reach the showpiece event.

A repeat scenario this season would cause logistical problems for FIFA and Danny Jordaan, chief executive of the World Cup organising committee, has requested a meeting with SARU to consider the available options.

Reservations

"Danny Jordaan has asked for a meeting with me because I understand he has some reservations about the common use of stadiums and the logistics around that," Hoskins told The Times.

"I think that soccer is trying to find a solution to what could be a logistical issue if one of our sides hosted the Super 14 final.

"Stadiums have to be clear of non FIFA-approved signage and they have to be set up for football matches, and there could be a clash with time-frames.

"I get a sense they need more time."

South Africa chiefs are already seeking a venue for the international Test against France on June 12, which was scheduled to be staged in Cape Town, with London's Wembley Stadium reportedly being considered.