Garden Route rugby fans will get their first taste of international franchise rugby when the Southern Kings run out against Irish side Munster in a GUINNESSPRO14 match at Outeniqua Park in George on 7 April.
Southern Kings CEO, Charl Crous, said this formed part of their “mission to bring international rugby to all our people”.
“South Western Districts has always been a key component of our franchise and has not only provided us with passionate support but also a number of great players, as well as our Head Coach Deon Davids,” Crous said.
He said that the GUINNESSPRO14 was one of the fastest growing brands in world rugby and the inclusion of the Southern Kings and Cheetahs this season had made it possible for more fans to share in the excitement of international franchise rugby.
The President of South Western Districts Rugby Hennie Baartman said: “having the Kings play GUINNESSPRO14 rugby in George will not only be a huge boost for the city but also for the sport of rugby in the area”.
“It will inspire our young players to see icons of the game from up close and I have no doubt that our people will embrace the occasion! The match will take place at Outeniqua Park and I encourage all fans to get their tickets early to avoid disappointment,” Baartman said.
George mayor, Melvin Naik, said George was well established in hosting international sporting events.
“I am sure most rugby fans will recall the many years during which we hosted the SA leg of the HSBC IRB World Sevens Series and we see our partnership with the Southern Kings as an extension of that fine tradition. The Munster team and their fans are in for an absolute treat when they arrive,” Naik said.
Earlier this season the Kings’ hosted Ulster at the Wolfson Stadium in KwaZakhele, Port Elizabeth.
