South African Rugby Union President (SARU) President Oregan Hoskins has rejected claims that Springbok coach Peter de Villiers can only pick three overseas-based players.

Earlier reports suggested that De Villiers would be allowed to pick only three overseas-based players, but Hoskins, who is in Dublin to attended an International Rugby Board (IRB) conference, says that there is confusion surrounding the issue.

He spoke to rugby365.com about the debate and indicated that there seemed to be a misunderstanding in SA Rugby's ranks.

"I haven't read what's been said, but there may be a misunderstanding amongst SA Rugby regarding the issue [of picking overseas-based players]," he said.

"The Presidents Council met on 27 May to discuss certain issues. There seems to be some confusion as to whether the issues surrounding the rule of picking overseas-based players has been rescinded," said Hoskins.

"Nothing has been confirmed yet.

"This will need to be clarified at the next Presidents Council meeting in the middle of May," he added.

Clearly there seems to be a communication problem at SA Rugby's HQ. The issue of picking overseas-based players is a crucial decision that needs to be resolved as soon as possible.

With the likes of World Cup stars John Smit, Victor Matfield, Butch James and Percy Montgomery plying their trade in Europe, their Springbok futures are hanging in the balance. Smit though, has been appointed captain for the Wales series by De Villiers, so he seems to be assured of his place for now.

Hoskins did make it clear that he fully supported De Villiers in his bid to have minimal interference.

"There should be no stumbling blocks for Peter [De Villiers]," he said.

"There should be no interference from government in the selection of the Springbok team. He [Peter] should be empowered in every way," added Hoskins. 

De Villiers has Hoskins' full support, that much is clear. Whether the rest of the Presidents Council feel the same way remains to be seen. The next meeting is sure to be a heated affair.

365