The South African Rugby Union (Saru) welcomes the statement of the African National Congress (ANC) outlining their formal position on the future of the Springbok emblem.

Saru president Oregan Hoskins said he supported the ANC's stance in believing that sufficient debate had not taken place for an informed decision to be taken.

"We have noted the concerns and opinions expressed by some delegates at the National Sports Indaba in Durban," said Mr Hoskins. "But we now believe it is the time to engage with all stakeholders as the ANC has said.

"Rugby believes that the Springbok emblem is actually a force for unity in this country and anyone who saw the tens of thousands of South Africans of all races flock to welcome back the World Cup-winning Springboks last October couldn't help but conclude that the public had voted loud and clear on just what they think about the Springbok emblem.

"We will happily engage with the leadership of our government on the issue and welcome their invitation to involve all parties in the debate."

In their statement the ANC said: "The ANC would like to state categorically that it would not like to see any replacement or change of the Springbok emblem until sufficient debate and consultation of all stakeholders, including rugby supporters, has taken place.

"We would also like to encourage our world-acclaimed sportsmen to continue winning more World Cups for South Africa and not be distracted by debates on the future of the Springbok emblem."

Hoskins added that the national rugby team would appear as the Springboks on the end-of-year tour of Wales, Scotland and England.

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