RIOTS: Will more Varsity Cup games be canned?

rugby365 can confirm that Varsity Cup matches scheduled for this coming Monday, February 29, have been postponed until April 4.

And Varsity Cup organisers will revisit the situation next week, with the possibility of further postponements not ruled out.

This follows the riots which erupted in Bloemfontein this past Monday – after protesting workers disrupted the game between the University of the Free State (Shimlas) and the Nelson Mandela Metropole University (Madibaz) by moving onto the pitch.

An angry mob of students charged at them and numerous scuffles occurred.

Play had to be stopped 17 minutes into the first half, with the Shimlas leading 12-7.

The match resumed approximately an hour after the police and university security settled the situation and both teams agreed to continue with the match.

Shimlas ran out 46-19 winners.

It later transpired that violence broke out even before the protesting workers took to the field – with reports of at least two women being assaulted.

One of these incidents were caught on video footage, with a male 'protester' punching and kicking a female student, before hitting her with a megaphone.

There has been angry protests at universities all over South Africa, with widespread vandalism – with students and non-students protesting over a host of issues.

These include fees, accommodation, outsourcing, etc.

However, Monday's pitch invasion and ugly scenes – before and after the invasion – have sent shockwaves through the country.

Varsity Cup organisers have now opted to pull the plug on the next round of matches, with the possibility of further postponements.

The full statement from Varsity Cup CEO, Duitser Bosman: "The Varsity Cup Board has taken a decision to postpone all fixtures for Monday, February 29, to allow universities across the country the opportunity to address various challenges faced at their respective campuses.

"We do not condone any form of violence, discrimination or disruptive behaviour.

"The safety of students, players and spectators is of immense priority to us.

"The current challenges facing universities and students are a concern. We have compassion and respect for the situation and hope that amicable solutions can be reached with all parties.

"Varsity Cup is South Africa's premier inter-varsity rugby competition and over its nine year history entertained and brought together students, spectators and aspiring rugby stars from all communities.

"Our aim has always been to celebrate South Africa and we will continue to do so.

 "The Board will meet again next week to reassess and monitor the developments at the various universities before any matches resume.

"The well-being and safety of all attending and participating in our events is of utmost importance.

"We pride ourselves in providing a competition that also actively campaigns against violence through our Pink Shorts campaign and community outreaches by all participating teams. Varsity Cup has been a driving force for good in South Africa over the years."

By Jan de Koning

@King365ed

@rugby365com