André Rademan has been identified as a possible successor to Cheeky Watson for the vacant EP Rugby president position. CRAIG LEWIS reports.

Watson finally stepped down from his post at the end of February, while at the same time it was confirmed that the administration of the cash-strapped union would be returning to local hands.

Elections for a new leadership will be held in early April, with SA Rugby appointed administrator Monde Tabata set to then hand over the union to the new executive.

With nominations having been called for, the Rugby Transformation Coalition (RTC) confirmed to SARugbymag.co.za that they have finalised a clear succession plan, which sees Rademan nominated as president, with Bantwini Matika as his deputy.

Rademan is a Crusaders Rugby Club official, while Matika has been a representative of the RTC and an outspoken critic of Watson.

‘We are excited at the prospect of a new leadership for our union,’ a statement read. ‘These are tried and tested club administrators who have been in charge of club rugby for years now. These individuals are carefully selected, based on their abilities and expertise.’

The RTC confirmed that the executive members who served under Watson were not considered on the principle that it was also time for them to step aside.

‘At the centre of our struggle against president Watson was the inability to account to its constituency … This would remain central now and all these candidates subscribe to it.’

The full list of proposed candidates from the RTC are:

President: André Rademan
Deputy President: Bantwini Matika
Vice President: Chico February
Finance: Adv Shaheed Patel
Coach and Development: Cannon Maasdorp
Facilities: Makhaya Jack
Enquiries: Adv Willie Blundin

Photo: Richard Huggard/Gallo Images