Opinion: New South Africa-New Zealand ‘mini-series’ poses questions about Springboks’ future

The Springboks could have their cake and eat it if they feature in an expanded Six Nations and in a revamped Rugby Championship after the 2023 World Cup, writes Jon Cardinelli.

The four biggest South African franchises have already joined the United Rugby Championship tournament, and will feature across the European Champions Cup and Challenge Cup competitions from next season onwards. Thereafter, the Boks could join the Six Nations in 2024, either by replacing Italy or by entering the tournament as the seventh team.

The latter is more likely to come to pass. While Italy have struggled to compete in the Six Nations – the Azzurri recorded their 34th consecutive Six Nations defeat when they lost to England on Sunday – they remain entrenched in the European structures.

Come 2024, England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, Wales and South Africa could all be part of the same regional Test tournament. The competition will need to be restructured to accommodate a series of Bok matches in Europe, as well a one-match tour to South Africa for each of the European teams.

There will be challenges, with the tournament staged on two continents and during a time when European temperatures plummet and when the South African summer peaks.

Commercially speaking, there is plenty to be gained from the new venture. The negligible time difference between Europe and South Africa is viewed as a major plus to broadcasters.

Rumours of an expanded Six Nations have been circulating since early-2020. The noise will continue to build in the lead-up to the next four-year cycle, when significant structural changes will be implemented.

What’s interesting to note is that SA Rugby has no desire to burn their bridges with Sanzaar – at least not yet.

Sourc