Saracens eager to face Springboks

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Saracens are reportedly in talks with world champions South Africa over a potential fixture next year at Allianz Park.

According to SkySports News, the talks with the SA Rugby are at an early stage as the defending Premiership champions attempt to arrange competitive matches to keep their high-profile squad match-fit.

With Saracens' England and British & Irish Lions stars,  like Owen Farrell and Maro Itoje,  not playing week-in week-out in the Championship next season, the club are looking at innovative ways of providing high-level opposition, which includes the World Cup champions.

It has also been reported that the club is also aiming to host several tier-one Test nations, as well as the Barbarians and Super Rugby teams next season.

Saracens’ plan has the backing of England coach Eddie Jones and Lions coach Warren Gatland.

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Earlier this month, it was revealed, the reigning Premiership and European champions would lose their spot in England's top flight after they were found guilty of salary breaches and having been docked 35 log points.

The sanction sees them placed dead bottom in the Premiership standings, with an unprecedented negative points balance, despite racking up an equal number of victories as the top side, Exeter Chiefs.

Sources: SkySports news & The SouthAfrican

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