McKenzie delays SA Rugby meeting

SA Rugby has postponed a planned special general meeting, scheduled for today, to consider a proposal to conclude a private equity investment in the sport's commercial rights at the request of Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie.

- Jacques van der Westhuyzen

The meeting will now be rescheduled at the minister's request to more fully brief government on the proposal.

SA Rugby has sought an equity partner in a new company to handle the commercial affairs of the rugby body. Ackerley Sports Group, based in Seattle in the United States, was selected as the preferred partner by SA Rugby.

According to Sport24, Ackerley is in line to gain a 20% stake in the commercial company for an outlay of R1.3 billion.

Thirteen member unions, or provinces, were scheduled to vote on the deal today. Western Province was not allowed to vote because it is under administration, according to Beeld.