The Varsity Cup has seen the last two rounds suspended, tensions on campuses around the country reaching breaking point after events at the University of Free State (UFS) and Madibaz match.

I’m sure you’ve seen the videos of the on-field brawl between spectators and protesters but if you haven’t you can see them all HERE and HERE.

Now after a two-week hiatus matches will again take place this Monday evening, although if you’re wanting to watch those matches best you get in front of a TV. Here’s EWN:

University rugby tournament, the Varsity Cup, will resume this coming Monday but without spectators and at neutral venues…after protracted negotiations involving all the relevant stakeholders…

It’s expected though that due to the sensitivity of the situation and the organisers desire to afford the institutions time to resolve the challenges currently facing them, across the country that the game will be played at neutral venues.

In a further step, it’s expected that no spectators will be allowed to attend those matches.

Following the brawl at UFS threats were made against the team, who were due to play UCT that following week. Here’s Dispatch Live:

…a Faceboook user posted online that when the rugby teams visit UCT, they will be welcomed with “open arms”.

“Dear University of Free State rugby team [University of Pretoria], We acknowledge that you will be at UCT on the 29th of February playing on the UCT Rugby Field at 16:45. We look forward to welcoming you with ‘open arms’.  Warmest regards, Gatvol Black [sic]” the facebook post reads.

The post was accompanied by a man wearing a balaclava, so that ‘open arms’ comment more than likely didn’t mean a hug and a shared beverage.

Looks like you’ll be playing in front of empty stands Varsity Cup players, which should prepare you nicely for the Currie Cup and Bulls Super Rugby home matches.

[sources:dispatchlive,ewn]