PSL welcomes High Court Decision on Thanda matter

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has welcomed the decision by the South Gauteng High Court today to refer the application brought by Thanda Royal Zulu to arbitration.

The Judge’s ruling is in line with the argument advanced by the PSL throughout the proceedings that the matter cannot be argued in court but through processes available to all 32 members of the Premier Soccer League as stated in the NSL Rules.

The Judge did not rule on the merits of the application. The Court ordered that the issues be referred to arbitration or arbitrators appointed in terms of the constitution and rules of the National Soccer League, as read with those of the South African Football Association and any further instruments incorporated by reference in the constitution and rules of NSL and SAFA.

PSL Head of Legal, Advocate Ntsietso Mofokeng said: “We are delighted with the outcome because we are convinced that this matter should never have been referred to court in the first place. This is a football matter.”

Mofokeng further explained: “An Arbitrator(s) will be appointed to deal with the issues raised by Thanda. Today,the Judge did not make any findings on the merits of  the award made at the arbitration process of 26 May 2013.”

The PSL also advised that the Promotion Play-offs will continue as scheduled this week. On Thursday, 20 June 2013, Santos will host MP Black Aces at the Cape Town Stadium. Kick-off is at 19h30.