Cape Town - The South African Rugby Union (SARU) will introduce a new quota system in domestic rugby from next year in an attempt to see more black talent emerge.
According to a report on Die Burger's website, this new rule will apply in next year's Vodacom Cup competition.
Teams will be forced to field seven players of colour in their 22-man squads, with at least five players in the starting team. At least two of the seven will also have to be among the forwards.
SARU CEO Oregan Hoskins hopes the new rule will help see the emergence of more black talent through to Super Rugby, Currie Cup and national levels.
"The feeling within our organisation is that we had to step in to see more black players come through. The provinces also shared our views," said Hoskins.
"To have certain targets will show that SARU is committed towards transformation. The Vodacom Cup is of critical importance to development and it has moved away from its primary aim to provide opportunities to promising young players, especially those of colour.
"The aim is to enlarge the pool of players of colour from which Currie Cup and Super Rugby coaches can pick. Hopefully, it would then also give the Springbok coach more options," continued Hoskins.
HAVE YOUR SAY: How do you feel about this new quota rule by SARU. Is it fair on aspiring professional players? Send your thoughts to Sport24.
According to a report on Die Burger's website, this new rule will apply in next year's Vodacom Cup competition.
Teams will be forced to field seven players of colour in their 22-man squads, with at least five players in the starting team. At least two of the seven will also have to be among the forwards.
SARU CEO Oregan Hoskins hopes the new rule will help see the emergence of more black talent through to Super Rugby, Currie Cup and national levels.
"The feeling within our organisation is that we had to step in to see more black players come through. The provinces also shared our views," said Hoskins.
"To have certain targets will show that SARU is committed towards transformation. The Vodacom Cup is of critical importance to development and it has moved away from its primary aim to provide opportunities to promising young players, especially those of colour.
"The aim is to enlarge the pool of players of colour from which Currie Cup and Super Rugby coaches can pick. Hopefully, it would then also give the Springbok coach more options," continued Hoskins.
HAVE YOUR SAY: How do you feel about this new quota rule by SARU. Is it fair on aspiring professional players? Send your thoughts to Sport24.