Rugby: ITM Cup team stay resolute

The future of the Otago rugby team is set to be announced today. Photo / Getty Images

Shocked but resolute sums up the feeling in the Otago rugby camp yesterday.

The ITM Cup team was horrified at news the Otago Rugby Football Union faces liquidation unless an 11th hour solution can be found before Friday's deadline.

The players are in limbo until a decision is reached but have vowed to continue training as normal.

"We knew it was bad but we did not know it was that bad," said Otago prop Scott Manson. "But whether it is a new entity or somehow resurrected, we are still hopeful of playing in the ITM Cup as an Otago team.

"We definitely have hope. From the board's perspective it didn't sound very optimistic at all. But from what Rob Nichol from the players' association has told us there is still some chance that it can be resurrected."

The 23-year-old prop made his debut last season and was looking forward to the campaign.

Loose forward Adam Hill said the news had come as a shock.

"It is just a sad time for a prestigious province," he said.

Staying loyal could be costly. The income Hill drew as an Otago rugby player made up half his salary and if it suddenly disappeared he would have to consider his options.