Share

Transformation impossible before RWC

Johannesburg - Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula said it was a well known fact that the Springboks would not be racially transformed in time for the Rugby World Cup in London.

"I said on May 18 that the national team will not be able to make [transformation] targets," Mbalula said. 

He highlighted that there had been a lot of criticism about the composition of the squad. 

Addressing a media conference at the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc) offices in Johannesburg, Mbalula reminded the media that the SA Rugby Union (Saru) had signed a document stating they would implement the 50/50 transformation plan in the next five years. 

"Every year, they should account for what they have done," Mbalula said, denying claims that he was softer in his approach to rugby transformation than to cricket.

If Saru failed to implement the 50/50 plan, there would be consequences, he insisted. 

This included the deregistration of the team, withdrawal of their permission to use national colours, and a lack of support for sports bids.

Mbalula said transformation should start at grassroots level, especially in public schools. 

He said currently, black sportsmen who had made it into national teams came from private schools where sports was promoted. That needed to change, he said. 

What was needed was a financial boost for the ministry in order to develop sports infrastructure. 

Mbalula said approximately R10bn would be needed over a 10-year period.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1116 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1281 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 1975 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE