South Africa’s leading cellular network Vodacom today announced its title sponsorship of Rugby Super 12. The sponsorship further consolidates Vodacom’s already extensive support of rugby in South Africa, which includes sponsorship on the Vodacom Cup, Vodacom Incoming Tours, several sponsorships at Provincial level and official cellular network supplier status to SARFU and the Springboks. The new Vodacom Rugby Super 12 sponsorship will make Vodacom the biggest sponsorship investor in rugby in South Africa. Vodacom Managing Director, Andrew Mthembu, said the new sponsorship would significantly boost Vodacom’s association with rugby and its growth in South Africa. “Vodacom Rugby Super 12 is one of the most sought after rugby properties in the world,” he said. “The competition has a very high profile and is recognised as symbols of high performance and excellence. Vodacom is proud to associate with these values. “We believe too that the Vodacom Rugby Super 12 has significant growth potential and see this new sponsorship as a long-term investment in the game,” Mthembu said. SARFU CEO, Rian Oberholzer, thanked Vodacom for their on-going commitment to the future of South African rugby. “Vodacom’s involvement in rugby is unique in that their sponsorship interests range from the international arena and Vodacom Rugby Super 12 to the Vodacom Cup and several regional sponsorships. It is encouraging to see a company of Vodacom’s stature investing in rugby,” Oberholzer said. The Vodacom Rugby Super 12, 2000 gets underway on Friday 25 February with the Hurricanes facing the Sharks in Wellington and the Brumbies up against the Blues in Canberra. On February 26, the Bulls host the Cats at Minolta Loftus, the Stormers meet the NSW Waratahs at Fedsure Park Newlands, and the Otago Highlanders play the Queensland Reds in Dunedin. Defending Champions, the Canterbury Crusaders open their 2000 campaign against the Chiefs in Hamilton on Sunday 27 February. The Vodacom Rugby Super 12 semi-finals are scheduled for 20 May with the Final taking place on 27 May. Issued by SARFU and Vodacom. Enquiries: Anthony Mackaiser – 082-990-6920 Alex Broun – 082-990-1127 Nico van der Westhuizen – 082-990-1924