South Africa file appeal to avoid Rugby World Cup ban ahead of France clash

Rugby World Cup – highlights from day 21

South Africa have filed a court appeal against a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) decision that may have seen them sanctioned ahead of their World Cup quarter-final clash with France. The Springboks were set to face sanctions for non-compliance with anti-doping regulations but the appeal may have ensured that they can fly their flag and sing their national anthem on Sunday.

WADA updated its code in 2021 but South Africa didn’t alter their regulations to align with the new legislation, which was raised to the relevant representatives of the nation. As a result, the team may not have been able to fly their flag on Sunday, or even wear kits that had the South Africa flag printed onto them.

Sports minister Zizi Kodwa has since revealed that an appeal has been lodged, consequently meaning that any sanctions would be put on pause for the foreseeable future – and sparing his nation of embarrassment at the weekend.

Kodwa announced: “I have also instructed SAIDS to file a notice to challenge WADA’s non-compliance declaration against South Africa through the Court of Arbitration in Sport, I believe the grounds for appeal are strong and that the sanctions are not appropriate. The sanction as it pertains to the flying of the national flag has created unnecessary hysteria and punished athletes and players unfairly who are competing for the pride of South Africa.”

Don’t miss… New Zealand legend shows true colours ahead of Ireland Rugby World Cup clash[LATEST]

The minister added: “The filing of the appeal will stave off the consequences of the non-compliance as it applies to the flying of the South African flag at regional, continental and world championships and events, organised by major event organisations,

“This means that the flying of the South African flag at events such as the cricket and rugby World Cups will not be affected until CAS rules on this challenge.”

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

South Africa Rugby president Mark Alexander has been left understandably angered by the ordeal: “We have this problem because our government failed to have new legislation promulgated,” he said. “It is a disgrace. It is an embarrassment for our country. They were issued notice well in advance.

“This is not a debatable thing. You cannot change things. You just have to put it in your legislation. We are supposed to conform to WADA requirements. We failed to change our legislation to include the changes.”

Source: Read Full Article