SA Rugby is considering a shake-up that could see the country’s URC unions compete in this year’s SA Cup.
According to Rapport, SA Rugby head of high performance Dave Wessels is driving the proposal that would see the Bulls, Lions, Sharks and Western Province compete in the SA Cup to fast-track Junior Boks development ahead of the World Rugby U20 Championship.
The “big four” are understood to be supportive of the idea, viewing the SA Cup as a valuable platform for Currie Cup coaches to build combinations early in the season. It would also allow 20- and 21-year-old players to test themselves against older opposition while accumulating meaningful game time.
There are additional benefits at URC level, with fringe players able to stay match-sharp should they be required by their franchises.
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If approved, the proposal would lead to changes in the age-group landscape this year, with only a national U20 competition taking place. The U19 and U21 tournaments would be shelved.
The four URC unions would again qualify automatically for the Currie Cup Premier Division. Reigning Currie Cup champions Griquas would still be required to qualify, while the Cheetahs could secure automatic entry by reaching the EPCR Challenge Cup round of 16.
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