Mukwima Chilala writes
@SunZambian
TWO South African Rugby teams that were to play at the Zambia International 7’s Ruby tournament to be held at Lusaka’s Chester Dean Arena have withdrawn from the event.
South Africa’s Blue Bulls and Bobbies teams will not be travelling to Zambia as they have withdrawn from the competition.
According to a statement from R&G events who are the event organizers , Bobbies and Blue Bulls would not be taking part in the competition in light of the recent Xenophobic attacks in South Africa, out of their respect for Zambia.
The tournament would however go on with teams scheduled to play the two withdrawn teams to be placed on bye.
‘’In light of the xenophobic attacks in South Africa and the retaliatory attacks here in Lusaka, we wish to inform you that out of respect for Zambian sentiment, the JHB Bobbies and Blue Bulls have since withdrawn from the Zambia 7s International Tournament and will not be travelling to Zambia,’’ read the statement. As for the tournament, we will proceed as normal and any teams scheduled to play the JHB Bobbies or the Blue Bulls will simply get a bye on that game.
“As the event organisers, and on behalf of the Zambia Rugby Union, we stand with all Zambians in condemning the xenophobic attacks in South Africa and pray for the safety of all and the quick return to order and peace,” reads the statement.
The tournament will draw participation from local and regional teams that will compete for this weekend’s tournament.
