Six Nations concern over Springbok link

CONCERNS are growing in rugby governance circles that investors CVC are preparing a move to add South Africa into the Six Nations. The Gain Line understands the world champions are close to agreeing an ‘exclusive period of negotiation’ with the private equity group, who own a 14.3 per cent stake in the tournament.

Bringing South Africa into the Six Nations could result in an uplift in broadcast cash, but the move would be unpopular with traditionalists and could be blocked by the home unions. CVC are reportedly planning to open an office in the United Arab Emirates — amid fears that one exit strategy could be to sell off their rugby investments to the Middle East. CVC were not available for comment.