What Kings can now expect
IF THE Southern Kings make their increasingly likely debut in an enlarged European Pro12 competition later this year, they will face a much more congested fixture list than the one they are accustomed to dealing with in Super Rugby.
Used to a staple diet of 15 Super Rugby games a year, the Kings could now be facing a gruelling programme of 24 games with increased travelling to European destinations.
Such an exhausting schedule would require a big squad and a war chest estimated at about R70million to contract a line-up capable of dealing with a tough itinerary.
There has been speculation that the Kings can expect a cash injection of about R22-million from TV revenue if they join the Pro12.
Experienced prop Schalk Ferreira, who has played extensively overseas, has warned that the Kings would have to make changes to their game plan if they play in a European league.
“I think I would still like us to play an attacking game. But there would be changes we should make to our game plan if we join that competition [Pro12].”
Ferreira played 35 games for French Top 14 side Toulouse and his experience would be vital if the Kings play in Europe.
Asked if the players had been told about where they would be playing next season, Ferreira said: “There is no clarity yet. There is hope and that is all the guys are hanging onto. Hope that the Kings will be included into one of the leagues that will prolong international rugby in Port Elizabeth.”
Last season, Pro12 matches were played on Boxing Day and there will be no let-up over the new year as matches come thick and fast during an eight-month season in a league contested by teams from Ireland, Italy, Scotland and Wales.
It is thought that if two South African teams are included, they will play double headers when they fly to Europe to alleviate their travel load.
Months of uncertainty will come to an end next Friday at a special general meeting in Cape Town which will confirm the four South African entrants to a revised Super Rugby competition from next year.
The European competition kicks joining Pro12.
Townsend, who was Glasgow coach until taking over the Scotland job this season, does not foresee any problems should the Pro12 be expanded to include the Kings and Cheetahs
“I’ve coached in the Pro12 the last five years and it’s an excellent tournament. The variety is something that makes it special and unique with teams from Ireland, Wales and Italy,” Townsend said
“If there was a willingness for the Pro12 to include teams from South Africa, I don’t see any reason why it wouldn’t work out. It’s a great competition that’s always looking to evolve.”
If the Kings play in a revamped northern hemisphere Pro12 competition, it would pose new challenges, said head coach Deon Davids.
Asked if he would he would like to be part of a potentially revamped new-look Pro12 competition, Davids said: “I would definitely like to take part in the competition.
“I think the Pro12 is something different and it opens a different landscape for the players and coaches.
“It would also be a new experience if you will play against teams in different conditions and in countries over a new time period.
“So it would be a huge challenge but an excellent chance to familiarise yourself with the type of rugby that is played in the northern hemisphere.”
It is believed that frantic behindthe-scenes work is being done to ensure the Kings will be ready to make a possible Pro12 debut if decided that Europe is the way forward.
Until things are finalised next Friday, however, it is going to be a tense wait for everyone at the Kings.