The implementation of VAR in the DStv Premiership League is gathering pace.
The use of Video Assistant Referees is now commonplace throughout world football but is yet to be implemented by the Premier Soccer League.
With the standard of officiating in the South African top-flight questioned more and more by coaches each season, the call to introduce VAR has been increasing with every bad referee decision.
Head of Referees at SAFA Abdul Ebrahim has revealed that the PSL has been given permission to develop their budget to implement the new system.
Ebrahim said on FARPost: “It’s a matter of getting necessary permissions, SAFA being the mother and PSL being the professional wing; the two parties had to sit down, which they have.
“We had a meeting last week and we have been asked as the referee’s committee and the referees’ department to put together a comprehensive budget so that everybody can see what it is that is involved in getting VAR underway in South Africa.”
Ebrahim added that proper training needs to take place if VAR is to be adopted properly.
“The thing is we mustn’t be too much in a hurry to get VAR here because the training that needs to be done is extensive,” he explained.
“The minimum recommendation from FIFA is a six-week course.
“What we want to propose is maybe three, two-week session because referees need to be trained, technical people need to be trained. And we need to sit with broadcasters.
“So, there’s a lot that goes into the implementation of VAR, but the good thing is we have been given the green light to put a comprehensive budget proposal together.
“And we keep our fingers crossed this happens sooner rather than later.”