The leadership of the Western Province Rugby Football Union has distanced themselves from a proposed 25% salary cut for all staff members earning more than R20,000 per month.

WPRFU deputy president Zelt Marais tabled the proposal, but the union confirmed in a statement that it is not the official position of Western Province Rugby and does not have the support of the majority of the executive committee or board.

President Thelo Wakefield says that the reported pay cuts do not form part of the union’s current financial strategy.

‘We note the proposal from the WPRFU deputy president, but wish to emphasise that it remains a proposal that has not been adopted by either the executive committee or the board,’ he stated.

‘While we continue to strive for excellence both on and off the field, I would like to assure all staff, players and management that we have no intention of doing so at their expense or welfare.’

WP Rugby CEO Paul Zacks added that the focus of the leadership is to continue making progress with their turnaround strategy.

‘It is unfortunate that this proposal has made its way into the public domain, as it certainly does not reflect the position of all our leadership. At no stage has the board discussed the possibility of offering equity in lieu of any cuts to salary packages.

‘By implementing our numerous strategic turnaround initiatives and by making better use of our significant property portfolio, we can ensure that WP Rugby returns to profitability in the near future while enjoying success.’

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