Sir Ian McGeechan delivers his verdict on South Africa joining the Six Nations
Today at 02:10 PM
Rugby legend Sir Ian McGeechan has spoken out about expanding the Six Nations to include a seventh team, with the Springboks being a key part of his vision.
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The Springboks in the Six Nations: Could It Happen?
It was reported back in 2022 that the Springboks were in talks to join the northern hemisphere's Six Nations in 2025. Despite fan calls for relegation to be introduced to the competition, McGeechan argues that it would be better to add the world champions and keep the current closed-shop format.
South Africa's Shift to the Northern Hemisphere
South Africa's top rugby teams—Bulls, Lions, Sharks, and Stormers—are no longer competing in the Southern Hemisphere's winter competition. Since 2021, they've joined the United Rugby Championship (URC), following in the footsteps of the Southern Kings and Cheetahs who made the move in 2017.
McGeechan’s Bold Vision for the Future
“The obvious next step is for some sort of integrated season which sees the Springboks join the Six Nations to make it the Seven Nations,” wrote McGeechan. “Financially it is in the interests of everyone, and it will also be beneficial in terms of raising standards for England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, and Italy.”
McGeechan also pointed out that this idea could generate excitement among fans, referencing the success of the British and Irish Lions tours. “The example of the British and Irish Lions shows it also has the potential to be embraced by supporters as well, with fans travelling down to South Africa for a long weekend.”
"I have to admit that I’m biased and that it’s a prospect which excites me. I love South African rugby, and think it brings so much to the game. I’d love to see those links grow stronger still, although I can imagine it’s not a prospect that will be greeted enthusiastically in Auckland and Sydney."
Six Nations Blocks the Boks’ Entry
Despite McGeechan's enthusiasm, Six Nations organisers have since denied the possibility of expanding to a Seven Nations. However, speculation continued about the Springboks joining the competition.
The Boks Staying in the Rugby Championship
Reports from Rapport reveal that the Springboks moving from the Rugby Championship to the Six Nations is “no longer on the table,” mainly due to stalled negotiations between CVC Capital Partners and SA Rugby.
CVC’s Rugby Investments
CVC Capital Partners, which has invested heavily in rugby over the years, struck a £365m deal with the Six Nations in 2021. They also poured £230m into Premiership Rugby and bought a £120m stake in what was then known as the PRO14, which became the United Rugby Championship with the addition of South African franchises.
EDITORS PICKS:
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- Four players Steve Borthwick should call-up after England A dismantle Ireland A
Five British and Irish Lions hopefuls who FLOPPED in Six Nations round three
Steve Borthwick's men survived a late scare as Finn Russell's conversion slid wide, allowing them to snatch their first win over Scotland since 2020. Meanwhile, Wales looked revitalized under Matt Sherratt, producing their best display of the tournament so far.
But who had a weekend to forget? RUCK Editor Steve Smith takes a look at five players who struggled in round three.
Henry Slade – England
So much talent, yet another disappointing display on the international stage. Slade had a torrid time against Scotland, missing key tackles that left England exposed.
His defensive lapses piled pressure on his teammates, while his attacking contribution was minimal—offering little creativity in midfield. With fierce competition for places, could this be the end of the road for him under Steve Borthwick?
Nowhere near the Lions conversation right now.
Finn Russell – Scotland
A night to forget for Scotland's co-captain. While his passing and movement constantly tested England's defence, his goal-kicking proved costly.
In a game of fine margins, his missed kicks—especially the late conversion that drifted wide—ultimately defined the result. A fly-half of his quality is expected to deliver in clutch moments, and he'll know he left points behind. Scotland fans won't let this one slide easily.
The Lions will want their No. 10 to be reliable off the tee. Fin Smith and Sam Prendergast are breathing down his neck.
Jack Dempsey – Scotland
Struggled to make his mark in an intense physical battle. He carried with intent but was let down by handling errors and poor decision-making at key moments.
Scotland needed stability in the back row, but Dempsey was too often on the fringes rather than in the thick of it. A frustrating afternoon where his effort wasn't matched by execution, leaving Scotland's pack without the control he was expected to bring.
The No. 8 jersey for the Lions remains up for grabs, though Caelan Doris leads the charge for the 2025 tour.
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