Hogs complain about long season
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday August 15, 2014 11:19
They argued that teams have played a lot of rugby since the year begun.
The sevens tournament has been added for the first time to the season. Hogs spokesperson, Andrew Paxinos said the non-stop action has led to burn-out. He said some of Hogs players are not attending training due to injuries and other commitments. Paxinos was speaking to Mmegi Sport ahead of a crucial tie against defending champions, BDF Cheetahs tomorrow at Wharic Park.
Cheetahs are perched at the top of the log while Hogs are third. Paxinos said they have prepared well for the encounter although turn-out at training has not been impressive. “We are still far before the season ends. Normally we have one round and then take a break before playing the second round. “Things are now different, we are to play Sevens next month and that is too much for players,” Paxinos said of the programme. Kagiso Maruping of Mochudi Rugby Club had a different view, saying the changes that have been made to the length of the season are welcome.
He said local players need to improve their competitiveness to be at par with other countries.
He said the more games they play, the more competitive they will become. He said that would help the national team on fitness levels. Maruping said his side has not experienced fatigue.
BRU sevens will commence on September 6 in the south, while the second round will be played in the north on September 13. The tournament moves back to the south the following weekend before concluding in the north in the last weekend of September.
Meanwhile, Cheetahs were awarded soft points last weekend when Mochudi failed to pitch up for the game.
Maruping explained that they failed to honour the fixture due to logistical challenges that they faced.
He stated that they had thought the match would be played at Wharic Park only to learn that it was in Jwaneng. He pointed out that they failed to travel to the mining town because they did not have transport.
“We are a self-sponsored team and transport is always an issue for matches played outside Gaborone,” he said.
Mochudi take on Botho Ryders at Wharic Park tomorrow. Kick off is 1430hrs.
Maruping revealed that their coach has not been attending training sessions for some time and has not communicated with them.
He mentioned that despite the setback, they continue to train hard. In another match tomorrow, UB Rhinos lock horns with Tuskers in Francistown.