Securing sponsor the key for Kings to be successful

THE sooner the Southern Kings get a sponsorship, the better the Eastern Cape franchise can attract more talented players, develop youngsters and perform better, respected rugby commentator Kaunda Ntunja said.

He would not comment on the state of Border Rugby as he is not aware of all the details.

“Obviously, I’m very happy that the Kings are currently in Super Rugby. That gives a platform to promising young rugby players to aspire towards.

“Obviously what has happened in the background in the boardroom, in particular involving Cheeky Watson and people like that, has been very disappointing.

“But we’re hoping that going forward things can be sorted out and we’re happy that SA Rugby was able to support the Kings franchise financially and otherwise,” he said.

Asked what he thought should be done to ensure that the Kings and the Eastern Cape do benefit from the great talent in the province, Ntunja said the first step was to get a sponsor on board.

“I think what’s going to be important is that they need to get a sponsor first of all. I believe if they have financial backing then they will be able to have muscle in terms of selecting the best possible players and also in terms of growing the up-and-coming young players, in terms of their academy and junior structures and all that,” he said.

The 2016 SAB Commentator of the Year said he was honoured at being recognised for doing what he loves.

“Obviously it’s a great accolade for me and my career,” he said.

He is one of the men tasked with finding six rugby commentators for the sports channel.

The hopefuls will have to have a good command of the languages, English, isiXhosa and Afrikaans, deep understanding and knowledge of sport, the players and rugby.

They will also be judged on their ability to entertain while commentating.

“SuperSport have acknowledged my input in the work of commentary to trust me enough to be able to judge who is a good commentator or not. That shows that the company that I am working for values my work, so that also is just an extra feather on my cap.

“I think those are the three important things when it comes to commentary – it’s knowledge of the rules and players, a firm grip on the language and, thirdly, entertainment value,” he said.

The Eastern Cape auditions will be on Monday at St George’s Cricket Stadium from 9am until 6pm.

The competition is open to both South Africans and foreign nationals legally in the country.

You must be 18 years or older to enter.