Former All Blacks hooker James Parsons says he hopes the Springboks turn down the Six Nations and stay in the Rugby Championship beyond 2025.
Despite committing to Sanzaar and the Rugby Championship until at least the end of 2024, suggestions are that the door is still open for the Springboks to join the Six Nations in 2025.
The Springboks have been involved in the southern-hemisphere tournament since it was first formed as the Tri-Nations in 1996, claiming their first title in 1998.
Their rivalry with the All Blacks is a highlight of the Test calendar, as the two teams have a history going back to 1921.
Discussing the issue on this week’s ‘Aotearoa Rugby Pod’, Parsons said he hopes the Springboks won’t leave the Rugby Championship.
“Personally, I hope not because of the history we have,” Parsons said. “The best example of it, in our chat about most feared opponent or players we enjoyed coming up against the most, they were all Springboks or South African Super Rugby players.
“I think that shows the level of admiration and respect we have for their brand of footy. I believe it is speculation at this stage. My hope is they remain in the Rugby Championship.
“I suppose the time zone and travel suits, all those factors and I suppose money does play a part, of course,” Parsons added. “It is a business these days. I just hope it doesn’t happen, I don’t know if it is or it isn’t, or the reasons they are looking at it.
“I’ll be devastated.”
Crusaders halfback Bryn Hall explained the impact that the Springboks’ departure from the tournament could have on the other southern-hemisphere nations.
“If you lose the Springboks, unfortunately we are going to lose that ability to play a high-tier match, at that intensity level. I think we need play them consistently, to evolve and get better.
“That’s probably where the best rugby is played at the moment, in the Six Nations. How they are playing at the moment, you look at the European tour last year, how successful they were against the southern-hemisphere teams.
“It will be massively tough for us if we lose them. I hope it is just speculation.”
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