SOUTH AFRICA almost lost out on flying the country’s flag and singing national anthem during both the Rugby World Cup in France and the Cricket World Cup, respectively.
This as a result of failing to update its anti-doping legislation in compliance with new World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules but was almost certain to miss the deadline.
Minister of Sport, Zizi Kodwa and his team had to immediately intervene on Tuesday, having lodged an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against a World Anti-Doping Agency WADA’s decision.
SA has been given until this Friday to comply and update its doping legislation.
WADA later confirmed that South Africa would be free to fly their flag until CAS has formally heard the case.
Kodwa said the appeal with CAS should “stave off” the effects of the WADA decision, sparing the World Cup holders a major embarrassment.
The Montreal-based agency said it had received formal notification of the appeal, adding “the allegation of non-compliance is put on hold and the consequences will not apply until such time as CAS makes its ruling”.
A relief for the defending champs Boks who are preparing for the Quarter-finals against host France on Sunday.
Director of rugby, Rassie Erasmus, said on Tuesday he was glad the Springboks will be able to fly their flag in this weekend’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final against France.
“Whatever happened, we would be representing South Africa,” Erasmus told reporters.
“Even if it went the other way, the boys would be totally focused on the match.
“We’re glad that it’s in a way sorted out,” he was quoted.
The ban would have also affected Bafana Bafana’s two international friendly matches against eSwatini this Friday (home) and Ivory Coast- away, in preparation for both Nations Cup and World Cup, respectively.
Top image (Minister of Sport Zizi Kodwa had to intervene to avoid total ban on flying the national flag and singing of national anthem).
