Springbok legend Jean de Villiers has applauded the recent Six Nations for showcasing how competitive global rugby has become at Test level, and how the shift of players between countries as well as between international clubs in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship is enhancing this.
Jean de Villiers says the Vodacom United Rugby Championship is doing an incredible job of preparing a new generation of young players for the demands of Test rugby, and that this past weekend’s Six Nations action was another prime example of this.
Jean de Villiers and Jim Hamilton both concede it is inevitable that the Springboks will join the Six Nations, but raise concerns over the impact the move could have on the Test calendar and future British & Irish Lions tours.
Damian de Allende says he hopes the Springboks don’t move away from the unique challenge of playing in the Rugby Championship anytime soon amid links of a switch to the Six Nations.
Pieter-Steph du Toit has given his opinion on speculation that the Springboks could leave the Rugby Championship to join the Six Nations in the near future.
The Springboks playing in the Six Nations would all but kill off any hopes that the Celtic nations have of winning the competition.
France kicking coach Vlok Cilliers believes Cheslin Kolbe’s versatility makes him as “special” as the world’s best player, Antoine Dupont.
Former All Blacks hooker James Parsons says he hopes the Springboks turn down the Six Nations and stay in the Rugby Championship beyond 2025.
Sanzaar has announced that the Springboks will continue playing in the Rugby Championship until 2025, amid reports of a revival of the World Nations Championship concept.
Six Nations chief executive Ben Morel has insisted there are no plans to add South Africa to the tournament, as the Springboks remain committed to the Rugby Championship.