The Stormers have voiced their frustration over the condition of the pitch at Cape Town Stadium ahead of Saturday’s Vodacom URC clash against the Lions.
This follows an international World Supercross GP event held at the venue last weekend.
Stormers Rugby CEO Johan le Roux described the playing surface as “absolutely sad”, saying the state of the field detracts from what should be one of the showpiece fixtures of the season.
“Stormers Rugby is deeply disappointed by the condition of the DHL Stadium playing surface and the impact it will have on Saturday’s match, from both our players’ and spectators’ perspectives,” Le Roux told Netwerk24.
“The derbies we play over the coming weeks are the most important matches of the season outside of the knockout rounds, and we would give anything to be able to play on an international-quality surface.”
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The Stormers were forced to take their Investec Champions Cup match against La Rochelle to the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha after the Cape Town Stadium was booked for the Supercross event, with the aftermath of that off-road motorcycle racing now clearly visible.
However, Cape Town Stadium chief operating officer Louw Visagie insisted the pitch remains fit for purpose.
“The playing field must meet World Rugby standards regarding density, firmness and moisture,” he said. “Currently, the condition of the field falls comfortably within those limits and is suitable to play on.”
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Le Roux added that the Stormers’ agreement with stadium management allows for only one non-rugby event per month during their playing window, otherwise forcing the team to relocate.
“We will take the matter further at board level,” he said.
Photo: Stephen Nell/Netwerk24
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