BPL, Kabelano on collision course

Staff Writer | Friday March 9, 2018 21:21

 

The charity cup was last held in 2013, with Barclays as the sponsor, and Kabelano has reportedly begun negotiations with four popular clubs; Township Rollers, Mochudi Centre Chiefs, Extension Gunners and Gaborone United for this year’s edition.

However, the BPL has made it clear that Kabelano cannot proceed without their approval.

BPL chief executive officer, Thabo ‘Styles’ Ntshinogang said the rights for the charity cup were awarded to BTC, the title sponsors of the Premiership.

“We are not aware of any arrangements regarding the Kabelano Cup.

Yes, Kabelano approached us some time last year, around September and we made it clear to them that now the BPL has sold Charity Cup rights to BTC,” Ntshinogang said yesterday.

Mmegi Sport is in possession of documents indicating that the Kabelano Charity Cup would be played on July 28 at the Francistown Sports Complex.

Kabelano Trust representative, Thapelo Nteta said they are yet to approach the BPL over hosting the cup but preparations are underway. He said BTC cannot hold exclusive rights to holding a charity cup. 

He said anyone can have a charity cup. “If the BPL refuses, we will take it from there. BTC has no exclusive rights,” Nteta said.

He said they have tentatively booked both the Francistown Sports Complex and the National Stadium for the tournament.

Chiefs general manager, Clifford Mogomotsi said they were approached by Kabelano Trust and they agreed to take part.

“Yes, our club is available, we are supposed to get feedback from Kabelano next week. However, if they are denied permission to host the tournament, obviously we will not take part,” Mogomotsi said.

According to the Kabelano Charity Cup rules, the four teams will participate in a one-day tournament, with the first game at 10am. The second semi-final is 12noon with the final played at 5pm.