Stormers players met with WP Rugby officials on Monday to discuss the coaching controversy involving Paul Treu.

This follows reports that WPRFU president Zelt Marais wanted Treu to replace Gert Smal as director of rugby, that the players held an emergency meeting chaired by captain Siya Kolisi on Sunday afternoon, and that DHL had given the union an ultimatum to remove Treu from the system or it would pull out as a sponsor.

In a press release on Tuesday, WP Rugby said the Stormers players did not meet on Sunday, but had met with the leadership on Monday.

Attending the meeting were Marais, deputy president Moneeb Levy and CEO Paul Zacks, as well as Smal.

Zacks said that the immediate focus was on the Vodacom Super Rugby campaign and ensuring the Stormers were prepared for the challenges ahead.

‘The meeting between senior leadership of Western Province Rugby and Stormers players on Monday was constructive and it is encouraging, as we are all committed to the future well-being of our professional teams,’ Zacks said.

‘While it is unfortunate that there was some misinformation in the public domain, we are confident of making meaningful progress to ensure that the Stormers and team management have the best chance of success in the 2019 season and beyond.’

Zacks added that, contrary to some media reports, WP Rugby has the full backing of all major sponsors.

‘We have got incredible sponsors who have stood together with us through thick and thin, without exception.

‘Given the quality, depth and experience in our current playing squad, we are excited about what we can achieve this season and we are all looking forward to what the possibilities are for the Stormers in 2019.’

Photo: Shaun Roy/Gallo Images