Boks refuse to commit

South African rugby has announced a return to domestic action but has yet to commit to the Springboks playing in the Rugby Championship.

There is relief in the rugby republic that play will finally resume with the country still being hit hard by Covid-19.

A double header in Pretoria on September 26 will see the Bulls play the Sharks and the Lions play the Stormers.

On October 3 what is effectively a Springboks trial will be held. Seven franchises will then start a double round local competition on October 10.

But in announcing the plans, SA Rugby CEO Jurie Roux said they were still unsure about their participation in the Rugby Championship where the Boks are defending champions.

The annual tournament is set to be hosted by Australia from November 7 and

Argentina’s participation is also under a cloud with several players infected with Covid-19.

Roux said plans for the Springboks to be involved were still being pursued but depended on international travel and other governmental restrictions as well as player wellness and high-performance considerations.

‘‘We’re still not in a position to confirm plans for the Springboks, but it remains our wish that they play tests this year,’’ Roux said.

There are concerns the Springboks will be seriously disadvantaged by their late return to action while New Zealand and Australia have already played domestic versions of Super Rugby and new All Blacks coach Ian Foster has his players currently involved in theMitre 10 Cup competition.