SA Rugby's withdrawal decision 'contrary to the spirit & core values of rugby' says Tel Aviv Heat

Tel Aviv Heat, the Israeli team at the centre of the controversy surrounding SA Rugby's new competition, the Mzansi Challenge, says the decision to withdraw their invitation to the tournament came as a massive surprise. 

READ | SA Jewish Board slams SA Rugby's withdrawal of Israeli team from new competition

Last Friday, the governing body for rugby in South Africa announced their decision to withdraw an invitation to Tel Aviv Heat, who were set to play in the Mzansi Challenge.

"We have listened to the opinions of important stakeholder groups and have taken this decision to avoid the likelihood of the competition becoming a source of division, notwithstanding the fact that Israel is a full member of World Rugby and the IOC," said Mark Alexander, president of the South African Rugby Union said at the time.

In a statement released on social media and their website, Tel Aviv Heat confirmed that at no time had SA Rugby approached them to discuss the decision.

"The Tel Aviv Heat was surprised and disappointed to learn of the decision taken by the South African Rugby Union (SARU) to withdraw its invitation to the Tel Aviv Heat to compete in the upcoming 2023 Mzansi Challenge," the statement says. 

"Though the statement issued publicly by SARU indicated they had 'listened to the opinions of important stakeholder groups', SARU did not consult with the Tel Aviv Heat, the Israel Rugby Union, or the Israeli Embassy in South Africa prior to the decision. 

"Since its founding in 2021, the Tel Aviv Heat's growth and success on and off the field has been driven by its rewarding and supportive team culture that brings together players, staff, and a community of passionate supporters that bridge multiple cultures, races, nationalities, and