Due to the global Covid-19 pandemic, no rugby has been possible in South Africa since March, and the decision has been made to scrap the planned home tests.

The Boks were meant to be playing in two tests against Scotland and one against Georgia in July, but the CEO of SA Rugby, Jurie Roux, has confirmed that they will not reschedule these matches.

Roux told OFM Sport that the focus is on playing a Rugby Championship in New Zealand later in the year, but playing in Europe is also an option.

“In terms of the national competitions, it would be fair to say at this stage that the only chance of international competitions will be in the New Zealand bubble for the Rugby Championships and that all other international matches for the Springboks are probably not in consideration anymore.

“We are not planning on hosting any international games in South Africa this year. That is the system we are working with.

“Our best chance of play is either in New Zealand and if that doesn’t materialise within the Rugby Championships, our second option is going north and possibly playing Test matches in the north. “Entrance into South Africa with our borders currently closed and with the indications we are currently getting it would be highly unlikely.”

Rugby in South Africa only resumed team training on Monday after receiving the green-light from the government.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport