RUGBY:South Africa yesterday suspended a decision to ban overseas-based players from appearing for the Springboks clearing the way for John Smit to lead the world champions in a one-off Test against Wales.
Smit, who plays for French side Clermont Auvergne, was named captain on Tuesday although three other members of the World Cup party who have since taken up European contracts - Ashwin Willemse, Gary Botha and Butch James - were not selected. The match is due to take place in Cardiff on November 24th.
The decision to suspend the ban was taken by the powerful council of provincial union presidents. who also confirmed the shortlist of four candidates to succeed Jake White as Springbok coach in the new year. The contenders, Allister Coetzee, Peter de Villiers, Chester Williams and Heyneke Meyer, will be interviewed on December 3rd and 4th, the statement said.
Meanwhile Warren Gatland is expected to be confirmed as the new Wales coach today with a four-year deal incorporating World Cup 2011 in New Zealand.
Gatland is expected to take charge for Wales' 2008 Six Nations campaign, which starts against England at Twickenham on February 2nd.
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