Six Nations administrators have issued a strongly-worded response to rumours that the Springboks could join the competition in the near future.

In the statement, the Six Nations denied media reports that the Springboks were set to replace Italy from 2025.

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Reports in the media this week said that the Springboks were being lined up as a replacement for the Azzurri, who have finished bottom of the Six Nations table in 16 out of 21 tournaments. This came shortly after Sanzaar announced that the Springboks had committed to the Rugby Championship until 2025.

“Six Nations Rugby, comprising of the six Unions and Federations and CVC, wish to confirm that they are not entertaining any discussion nor developing any plans to add or replace any participating union,” the statement read.

“All its energy is focused on the current strategic discussions regarding the July and November international windows and structure of the global season and to ensure a positive outcome for the development of the game.”

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