Kings look to backers for help

Top-level talks are under way between the Southern Kings and a sponsor which could give the ailing franchise a shot in the arm before the Pro14 kicks off in September.

The cash-strapped Kings won only one of their 21 matches last season, and a sponsor will provide the lifeblood needed to breathe new life into the team.

Because of the sponsorship talks, which are being held in conjunction with SA Rugby, the contracting of new players has ground to a halt.

So far the Kings have contracted 29 players, but is believed more players have already been lined up if the new sponsor comes on board.

“In conjunction with SA Rugby we are busy with sensitive negotiations with a sponsor. Because of this it is difficult to contract more players,” Kings chief operating officer Charl Crous said.

“It is a process that we have to work through, and while it is frustrating at certain levels it has long-term benefits for the franchise.”

Crous also said he did not want to create unrealistic expectations among supporters.

“Naturally this is not the best scenario, but this time we at least have a nucleus of players that have been training with our coach Deon Davids.”

With the new season set to kick off in little over a month, Crous says all parties are aware of the urgency of the sponsorship talks.

Head coach Davids said the Kings needed to sign four of or five big-name players to boost their chances of success.

Kings captain Michael Willemse said he was pleased that the Kings had a nucleus of players to work with.

“It is good that we have kept a group of players who played Pro14 last season,” he said.

Twenty-five of the 29 squad members played for the Kings when they struggled to keep their heads above water.