Luther Obi and Sylvian Mahuza have given notice of their intent to leave the Kings, but a number of new players have joined the squad in pre-season training.

Former Sharks fullback SP Marais will be rejoining the Kings, while Louis Fouché, Stefan Watermeyer and Jurgen Visser are some of the other notable names in the Kings Super Rugby training squad.

Carel Greef, Mark Richards, Caylib Oosthuizen, JC Roos and Australian-born James Hilterbrand were some of the other players who took part in a pre-season practice session at Sardinia Bay on Monday.

Despite the arrival of some newcomers, Obi and Mahuza have now joined Tim Whitehead, Lizo Gqoboka and Tim Agaba as players who have left the Kings due to ongoing salary payment problems.

However, the Kings did announce that all coaching staff were present at practice on Monday, and that none had given notice of intent to leave.

'Despite the trying circumstances the mood in the camp was positive,' EPRU executive member Vernon Stuurman commented. 'Management and players are aware of the current situation and have not allowed circumstances to impact on their pre-season preparations.

'All players were punctual and professional. The new players were welcomed and made to feel part of the team, and all team members were given the chance to socialise and get to know each other.'

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