Currie Cup's Champions Match add some Italian flavour
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Champions Team will face Italy A in the second edition of this unique encounter, it was confirmed by SA Rugby and the Italian Rugby Federation.
Supporters will be able to #ReachForGold by voting for their Champion Team as they line up against Italia Emergenti (Italy A) on Saturday, July 2 at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 19.00 SA time (17.00 GMT).
Last year, the Currie Cup leading sponsore took innovation to the next level with the introduction of this new rugby concept – the Champions Match – which allowed fans to vote for their composite team, comprising of players from all seven Currie Cup Premier Division teams, to play in a special exhibition match.
Mark Alexander, President of SA Rugby, was excited for the 2022 edition of this event: “It is a tremendous honour to be selected for the team because it’s done by the fans, which makes it something very unique.
“This match is another good innovation as we step our efforts to increase fan engagement and offer something fresh for our valued rugby supporters and our loyal corporate partners.
“Also, you only had to see the excitement on the faces of the Kenya players last year at Loftus to realise that the match was a real highlight for them. I am sure that the members of Italy A side will have an equally special experience when they play at the iconic Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium,” added Alexander.
Supporters of the Bulls, Sharks, Lions, Western Province, Cheetahs, Griquas and the Pumas can vote for the players they would like to see play for the Champion Team.
In this year’s edition of the special match, fans are further empowered by not only voting for their favourite starting 15, but will also get the chance to vote for their favourite coach who will lead the Champion Team on match day.
