No Place For Springboks In Six Nations, However ………

 

Following persistent rumours that the Springboks will leave SANZAAR's Rugby Championship to join the Six Nations competition, both SANZAAR and the Six Nations organisers denied any plans to change their current competition structures to accommodate the Springboks' rumoured move.

One has a feeling that all or most of the organisers in World Rugby are busy planning a universal season which will include a competition that will include all the top rugby playing nations in the world.

Therefore, it seems that South Africa will remain where they are, for the moment. However, a month in world rugby is a very long time.

"Six Nations Rugby, comprising the six unions and federations and (equity firm) CVC, wish to confirm that they are not entertaining any discussion nor developing any plans to add or replace any participating union," a statement said.

"All its energy is focused on the current strategic discussions regarding the July and November international windows and structure of the global season, and to ensure a positive outcome for the development of the game."

SANZAAR Chairman Marcelo Rodriguez stated, “The pandemic has created a very unusual sporting environment over the last two years with match and commercial delivery severely affected. This has seen the member unions work very hard to keep rugby alive and present during COVID and at times this has not been easy.”

 “Indeed there has been much speculation about the future but it is now great that all members have committed through until the end of 2025 as a minimum. This means we can concentrate on ensuring The Rugby Championship remains as one of the best rugby tournaments on the world calendar,“ added Rodriguez.