Business rescue blow to EP rugby

Credibility of R100-million sponsorship deal questioned in latest court papers

Secrecy, speculation and too many questions surrounding a proposed equity partner could spell the end of the Eastern Province Rugby Union (EPRU), with its creditors now vying for final liquidation.

Unimpressed and fed up, a string of former EP Kings players want a court to reject the beleaguered franchise’s bid for business rescue.

They say there is no prospect of the plan succeeding, and instead want the union wound up so debts can be settled.

And if EPRU’s assets fall short, the players see no reason why the assets of the South African Rugby Union (Saru) should not be sold off as well.

A main point of contention is UK businessman Christopher Wishlade, of Integrated Sport, who is managing the deal to acquire a 49% stake in the EP Kings.

“It is uncertain whether [Integrated Sport] is the alter ego of Wishlade or whether it is a company,” aggrieved former Kings’ captain Ronnie Cooke said in an affidavit.

Referring to an investigation by The Herald, Cooke said it was clear from the reports that Wishlade was an unrehabilitated insolvent.

“I have searched the internet and can confirm this averment,” he said.