Nkohla calls for change in leadership of EP Rugby

FORMER Kwaru captain Bomza Nkohla yesterday came out in support of the EP Rugby Transformation Movement, saying a change in EP Kings leadership was needed.

The movement last week laid out their plans for revamping sport in the region to create a successful path for transformation if they prove successful when the EP Rugby Union elections are held on November 29.

Nkohla, who captained EP and SA Schools, said transformation had suffered under president Cheeky Watson.

"What we have witnessed, especially in the past six years, is a total abdication of the responsibility to lead in the transformation of rugby by the leadership of Cheeky Watson," Nkohla, who also skippered EP and the SA Black Springboks, said yesterday.

"Rugby is not about business and the getting rich of very few individuals at the expense of the promotion of black talent from township and northern areas.

"Rugby in this region must be more about creating opportunities for coloured and African club players and coaches, and promoting development, integration and transformation."

He said the Eastern Cape had produced fine black players like Eric Majola, Peter Mkata and Galman Noqholi and himself.

"However, under the new franchise, we hardly see a black player even occupying benches. If anyone wants to promote rugby in our region, which talks about the history to which we contributed, how do you leave us out?"

It was announced earlier this year that all 14 provincial teams would be required to pick a minimum of seven black players in their Vodacom Cup match-day squads, two of whom must be forwards.

A minimum of five black players will be required to start.

Watson said he agreed wholeheartedly with increased transformation targets.

"How does this leadership under Cheeky Watson appoint a very inexperienced coach for an inexperienced team and expect good results? Where are the experienced, highly qualified black coaches?"

The Transformation Coalition is putting up six candidates for election at the annual meeting.

Windvogel United Rugby Club president Eben Coltman has been nominated to stand against Watson. - Alvin Reeves