SA Rugby interim CEO Rian Oberholzer insists “no doors are closed” to smaller unions competing internationally, but a tough rugby economy means teams “must be realistic”.

Defending Currie Cup champions, the Pumas stunned the Sharks last week to set up a final against the Free State Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

It will be the second time in a row that the Lowvelders have played in the decider, after they secured their first title by beating Griquas in Kimberley last year.

Coach Jimmy Stonehouse says the Pumas deserve better than another seven-month pre-season after this weekend’s finale, and the minnows have made a statement that they deserve another tournament to play in.

However, Oberholzer has poured cold water on such insistent appeals from Stonehouse, in an interview with Sport24.

“No doors are closed, but we must be realistic in the current climate of the rugby economy,” Oberholzer said.

MORE: Stonehouse to surprise Cheetahs

“Rand weakness and the inflated costs of international travel mean that it would require an extremely robust and financially secure business plan to make further international competition viable right now.”

“Rugby in all nations doesn’t have the money to play rugby for the sake of playing rugby.

“Competitions need to be self-funding at the very least and, therefore, any new competition ideas must bring with them confirmed broadcast rights sales, meaningful sponsorship opportunities, and teams and environments that are attractive to fans and broadcasters.

“Broadcasters and sponsors want events that people want to watch so any new international competition can’t kick off to half-empty stadiums hosting random international teams, unless it has a wealthy backer who is prepared to lose money for a few seasons.”

Photo: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix