SARU appeal as Watson saga drags on

SARU has avoided making public statements on the matter, given that there is an ongoing legal battle.

However, Andy Colquhoun, GM: Communications at SARU, confirmed to rugby365 that they are "applying for leave to appeal".

Colquhoun declined to comment further, as the matter was in the hands of the lawyers.

Back in June the labour court ordered SARU to reappoint Watson.

Watson was sacked as SARU's General Manager of Referees in July 2015, following an investigation in the wake of complaints from within the refereeing structures.

He was accused if having a "dictatorial, strict and abrasive management style".

Watson appealed that ruling and the labour court ruled in his favour.

The ruling meant SARU had to reverse the sacking and sanction Watson with only a written warning.

It meant Watson had to be restored, with immediate effect, to his position at SARU.

However, the appeal means the saga will now drag on, for months – maybe even longer.

@rugby365com