Springboks: Eben Etzebeth says Six Nations switch would be ‘good for South Africa’

South Africa are committed to the annual southern hemisphere international tournament but that could change after 2025.

There have been rumours that the Six Nations organisers are looking to bring in Jacques Nienaber’s team at some point in the future.

Their franchises now play in the United Rugby Championship, making the switch from Super Rugby after the coronavirus pandemic hit.

Etzebeth is currently plying his trade with French side Toulon but has signed for the Sharks ahead of the 2022/23 season and will get a feel for what the URC offers.

“I think the Six Nations would be good for us,” the lock said on the Rugby Roots programme.

“Obviously, it just makes sense with us playing in the URC at the moment against the same competition.”

The second-row doesn’t want to lose their connection to the Rugby Championship sides, however, and hopes they can find ways of taking on their old adversaries.

“Maybe we could have a full June series against New Zealand, play in the Six Nations and then have an end of year tour in Australia or Argentina.

“I would love to join the Six Nations, but I would also love to still play those other teams as well. Maybe they (World Rugby) can get a good balance.

“At the end of the day, for me, it’s just about playing for South Africa.”

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