adminNgoni Dapira Sports Correspondent
National Rugby League boss Noddy Kanyangarara is optimistic the top flight rugby league will end on a high note despite the financial shortcomings that again halted all league matches indefinitely for the second time last weekend.
Kanyangarara on Wednesday revealed that negotiations were at an advanced stage with the potential sponsor, NetOne, following their meeting on Tuesday.
The NRL funds dried out mid-season with no main sponsor for the 2014 season. The league was first supposed to resume and enter the second round fixtures on July 12, but only set off on August 16.
All the matches were cancelled last weekend with the league indefinitely halted until the sponsorship deal with NetOne is sealed.
Delta Beverage’s Lion Lager brand was the official NRL sponsor for the past three years after they signed a three-year sponsorship deal in 2011.
The contract catered for all the travel overheads of the eight teams in the topflight league and also provided new jerseys and training gear.
Kanyangarara said the 2014 season has been the most strenuous season without a main sponsor but believed the league would end on a high note.
“We have been pushing but after Tuesday’s meeting I am optimistic the league will end on a high note,” said Kanyangarara.
Kanyangarara said to complete all the eight matches left in the second round fixture they needed around $26 000 for transport expenses alone or $32 000 if referees fees are included.
Before 2008 there was no visible national rugby league due to financial constraints. The league had been decentralised to Harare and Bulawayo where the bulk of the teams were.
This, however, did not spur development for other regional teams like MSC, Gweru Sports Club and Zvishavane Bulls that later emerged when the NRL resurfaced after 2009.
Online Reporter