SA Rugby hails ‘biggest step forward’ since professionalism
· The South African
Change is inevitable, and almost in the blink of an eye, SA Rugby has found itself at the centre of a shake up to the schedule already this year that will see the Springboks take part in the so-called Nations Championship, while the All Blacks will also embark on a wide-ranging tour to South Africa in 2026.
The Nations Championship will see the four SANZAAR countries (South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and Argentina) plus invitees Fiji and Japan will take on the north’s Six Nations (France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, Wales, and England) in a series of cross-hemisphere matches in July and November for the biennial Nations Championship crown.
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In total, there will be 42 matches in the 12-nation series, which culminates with a showdown between the best of the south against the best of the north at the Allianz Stadium in London in November.
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SA Rugby talk up Nations Championship
Mark Alexander, president of SA Rugby, has now come out to suggest that the official launch of the Nations Championship was the “biggest step forward” for the sport since the advent of professionalism 30 years ago.
“The Nations Championship is more than a tournament, it is a statement of unity and ambition,” said Alexander.
“It reflects our collective belief that rugby’s future must be shaped through partnership, not fragmentation. This is the biggest step forward for the international game since the advent of professionalism.”
This ‘collaboration’ comes at a time when there is increasing talk that the Rugby Championship could be permanently shifted to align with the Six Nations in a global calendar.
The proposed changes, backed strongly by Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, would aim for Test action to be more closely aligned between the southern and northern hemisphere seasons.
Change on the cards
With the Nations Championship in mind, Alexander said this new chapter in rugby’s history would bring together the world’s leading rugby nations in a structured, integrated competition to enhance the importance of every fixture.
“It will deepen rivalries and create new opportunities for emerging teams,” he said. “It is a bold, future‑focused initiative built on collaboration, innovation and a shared commitment to the long‑term sustainability of the global game.
“It is designed to deliver a world‑class experience for fans, offering meaningful fixtures, consistent competition windows and a platform that showcases the very best of international rugby. It also reinforces the sport’s core values of respect, resilience and global connection.”