The annual Rugby Championship, featuring World Cup title-holders South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and Argentina, kicks off on Saturday amid uncertainty over its future.

New Zealand will do an eight-match tour of South Africa next year, including three Tests, during the August to October window when the Championship is staged.

That tour is aimed at boosting the coffers of the two national rugby bodies, and rules out the Springboks and All Blacks being involved in a double-round Championship as well.

Australia are set to host the 2027 Rugby World Cup and the Championship has always been reduced from a double to single round in years when the global showpiece takes place.

Adding to the long-term uncertainty is South Africa agreeing to an eight-match tour of New Zealand in 2030.

Recor

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