Boks hold off on overseas ban

I wonder if the Boks would let Australia and New Zealand do the same for the Tri Nations? It could be seen as setting a precedent for an ugly fight.



Boks hold off on overseas ban
Reuters | Friday, 9 November 2007
http://www.stuff.co.nz/4267379a10295.html


South African rugby bosses have suspended a decision to ban overseas-based players from appearing for the Springboks clearing the way for John Smit to lead the world champions in a one-off test against Wales.

Smit, who plays for French side Clermont Auvergne, was named captain on Tuesday although three other members of the World Cup party who have since taken up European contracts - Ashwin Willemse, Gary Botha and Butch James - were not selected.

The match is due to take place in Cardiff on November 24.

The decision to suspend the ban was taken by the powerful council of provincial union presidents.

A statement said discussions would take place with the South African players' association and other interested parties before a final decision was taken.

The meeting also confirmed the shortlist of four candidates to succeed Jake White as Springbok coach in the new year.

The contenders - Allister Coetzee, Peter de Villiers, Chester Williams and Heyneke Meyer - will be interviewed on December 3 and 4, the statement said.

The decision dashed the hopes of Sharks coach Dick Muir who applied for the job this week after the deadline.