World Cup champion South Africa will remain part of the four-nation SANZAAR rugby alliance for the immediate future, defying speculation it would throw in its lot with the northern hemisphere.
While its Super Rugby clubs will likely join Europe's Top 14 competition, at least temporarily, South Africa's national team is set to rejoin Argentina, Australia and New Zealand in future Rugby Championships.
The Springboks withdrew from this year's tournament in Australia because of player welfare concerns after the Covid-19 pandemic prematurely ended the Super Rugby tournament and then delayed its domestic competitions.
In a statement Wednesday, SANZAAR said South Africa would rejoin the southern hemisphere alliance from next season. SANZAAR indicated there would be significant changes to its competitions, including Super Rugby, as it adjusts to the new world order created by the coronavirus pandemic.
"The southern hemisphere rugby powers have recognised the need for change in these difficult times and have committed to an international rugby future through to 2030," SANZAAR chief executive Andy Marinos said. "The re-commitment by the four unions to the long-term future of the international game is an important start as we embark in a new direction.