Detractors argue that there is no future for the Springbok due to its links to the apartheid era, although the emblem has been in use prior to the racial divide.

They argue that the Springbok should be replaced by South Africa's national flower, the Protea, an emblem already used by the country's cricket and netball sides.

However, South African Rugby Union boss Oregan Hoskins has insisted that the Springbok emblem must remain a large part of South African rugby.

"It is understandable, considering our past, that in our society there are sectors who seek to kill the emblem," said Hoskins.

"But it is our duty to convince the decision-makers in this country that retention of the Springbok is right for rugby, and it is right for South Africa.

"The future of the Springbok emblem also dominates our forward thinking.

"It has more than mere symbolic meaning to South African rugby; it is an important source of revenue and a symbol of rugby excellence both here and around the world."