18 Apr 2014

Delay to re-introduction of quotas in South African sport

5:34 am on 18 April 2014

Controversial proposals in South Africa to re-introduce quotas into a number of sports have been delayed.

Fikile Mbalula, the country's sports minister, had demanded the immediate implementation of proposals which would have meant all teams had to have at least 60% black or coloured players.

He said any organisation refusing to fall into line would have all central funding withdrawn and could be prevented from taking part in international competitions.

However, quotas contravene International Rugby Board regulations, which prohibit selection on racial grounds - and they may also be illegal under South African law.