Big call to make for the Springboks

D-day is apparently here for the Springboks and the 2020 Rugby Championship. Firstly, will it take place and, if it does, where will it happen?

The location of the Championship – pushed out from earlier this year when the spread of Covid-19 suspended all sport across the world – has become a hotly debated topic Down Under with both New Zealand and Australia mentioned as possible hubs to host the Championship.

Sanzaar officials will meet today to discuss whether the Championship should proceed as initially planned, while tomorrow a decision will have to be made about which country should be handed the opportunity to host the four teams.

While several overseas Springboks have returned to action – in the UK and France – the local competition has yet to get underway and if it only starts on 10 October the Bok players will only have about eight to 10 days before departing Down Under if SA Rugby and the Bok management decide to participate in the Championship.

Initially, New Zealand were the favourites to host the competition after they were able to initially contain the virus and were actually declared virus-free at one stage, but following a spate of new positive cases, it was reported in recent days that Australia have emerged as the new favourites to put on the tournament.

It is now understood that the state of Queensland could play host, with Brisbane as the base.

The shortened version of the Championship is due to be held from 7 November to 12 December, but visiting teams would have to undergo a 14-day isolation period before the tournament can commence.

There are also doubts around

Argentina’s participation after six of their squad members tested positive last weekend and are currently in isolation.

New All Black coach Ian Foster named a 35-man squad a few days ago and said, like all rugby fans, the team was waiting for the All Blacks’ schedule to be finalised.

In the meantime, the All Blacks would return to their provincial sides for the opening weekend of New Zealand’s premier domestic competition.

“Our players are really excited to be playing for their provinces and it will be great for fans to enjoy in the next few months,” said Foster.