GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - The highly anticipated Ebrahim Patel Community Cup (EPCC) gets under way in George this afternoon, Thursday 2 April, with top community rugby clubs set to battle it out over the next five days.
Fans may look forward to an exciting opening day of fixtures. The matches are scheduled as follows:
• 16:00 - Blanco vs PE Harlequins
• 17:35 - Robertson vs Kruisfontein
• 19:40 - Safcol vs Heidelberg
• 21:15 - Botrivier vs Bridgton
While plans to broadcast the tournament on national TV could not be finalised in time, the organisers have confirmed that all matches will still be accessible to the public.
In an official statement, the EPCC organisers said following extensive engagements and ongoing discussions, they were unfortunately unable to conclude scheduling arrangements with the SABC in time ahead of this weekend’s tournament fixtures.
“However, the Ebrahim Patel Community Cup remains committed to delivering access to our fans, communities and partners. All matches will be streamed live via Global Sports Network (GSN) on YouTube, open and free to the public.”
Organisers said discussions with the national broadcaster are ongoing, and selected matches may still be broadcast once scheduling is finalised.
Beyond the action on the field, the tournament has already made a meaningful impact in the community.
In the lead-up to kick-off, the EPCC hosted a rugby clinic and financial literacy outreach at George High School, focusing on youth development and empowerment.
The programme reflects the values of the late former SA Rugby president, Ebrahim Patel, whose legacy of education, opportunity and service continues to shape the tournament.
Tournament director Romano Lekay emphasised the broader vision of the event, saying that the EPCC is more than a tournament.
“It is a movement rooted in community upliftment. Development starts at grassroots level, and through these clinics and financial education sessions, we are investing in the future of our youth,” he said.
The Ebrahim Patel Community Cup runs to Monday 6 April, promising high-quality rugby and a strong focus on community development.
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