Rugby enters crucial Super League stage
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday July 22, 2016 12:33
The two meet under the first ever Super League which was introduced this season by the Botswana Rugby Union (BRU).
The Super League stage starts tomorrow and runs for the next six weeks with teams looking to accumulate points.
The four teams that have qualified for the Super League are Gaborone Hogs, BDF Cheetahs, Jaguars and Rhinos. The four teams will play back-to-back matches for the next six weeks. The teams that finish first and second proceed to the final while number three and four will be involved in a play-off.
Rhinos are coming into the match in the absence of their coach, Mhonda. Mhonda told Mmegi Sport yesterday that he decided to quit the club due to internal politics.
He said when the system does not work for you, one has to leave. Contacted for comment, Rhinos chairperson Thatayaone Malele said he was not aware of Mhonda’s resignation. When pressed to give more details, Malele said he needed more time to talk to Mhonda. Mooketsi Ramakele has replaced Mhonda as the new Rhinos coach.
For his part, Mhonda said he sent an email to the management informing them of his decision. He said it was shocking that the chairperson is not aware of his departure.
“There was a club meeting before the holidays. During that meeting, there was a revolt by some players. They gave the management a letter in which they stated their demands. They called for the transformation of the club,” he said.
Mhonda said there were some things that did not go well with him.
“I was the go-between the club and their sponsor. Despite my resignation, I am not going to sabotage the sponsorship,” said Mhonda.
Meanwhile, Jaguars have left no stone unturned in their preparations. Jaguars manager, Feddy Mutenheri said since the completion of the first round of the league in May, the team has not stopped training.
“In fact, we have tried to increase the number of sessions. We beat Gaborone Hogs 33-21 in a friendly match last week,” he said.
Mutenheri said they want to bring in national team coach, Ivar Greaves to improve their scrum.
He said Jaguars have bought a scrum machine meant to improve the performance of the team in the Super League.
“Look, we are getting into this league to defend our position or improve it,” he said.
Mutenheri said the two teams have historical links. Rhinos view Jaguars as their younger brother who deserves to be disciplined. On the other hand, Jaguars view Rhinos as a yardstick to measure their progress. Mutenheri said it is for that reason that every player puts maximum effort whenever they play Rhinos. He said they have respect for Rhinos but Saturday’s match is a different ball game as they are eyeing the top of the log spot.
In another match that is expected to be interesting, BDF Cheetahs and Hogs clash at the Wharic Park.