I would like to apologize to all Kiwi and Convict rugby supporters on behalf of those SA rugby fans who disagree with the decision take by SARU to send a B-team on the away leg of our 3N campaign. The decision is a poor decision that will impact negatively on SH rugby specifically and test rugby generally for many years to come.

What makes the decision particularly cringe worthy are the following factors:

Firstly, it appears that assurances were requested and given in response to Jock Hobb's inquiry into the matter a few days ago. If this is the case, and those assurances specifically stated that our top players would be touring, then what SARU has done is commit a serious breach of faith and they should be called to task for it.

Secondly, many of us, including myself, were highly critical of the NZRFU's decision to water down the S14 for selfish RWC purposes and as such I am just as pissed off about SARU's decision to undermine the 3N in the same way. While not a new phenomenon in international rugger, this is the first time it has happened between SH teams. Its wrong and it sets a very bad precedent.

Finally, at the end of the day, it is the ordinary rugby fan that is getting shafted here and considering that without our commitment, dedication and money, there would be no professional rugby. Although it is the Kiwis and Convicts that are being deprived of two decent test matches, it is the South African Rugby Union that has taken this stupid decision and it is them that must take accountability for the consequences thereof, because we will all be the poorer for it.

Sorry chaps, our union has seriously cocked up here. I hope we can find a way of fixing it some time in the future.