STATEMENT: South Africa launch appeal to fly flag at Rugby World Cup

This ruling had found South African legislation to be in violation of the 2021 World Anti-Doping Code.

There were serious worried that the Springboks would find themselves without the South African flag during their knockout matches due to non-compliance with anti-doping regulations, a situation that has left Alexander seething with anger.

Minister Kodwa told a media briefing on Tuesday: “I have also instructed SAIDS to file a notice to challenge WADA’s non-compliance declaration against South Africa through the Court of Arbitration in Sport,

“I believe the grounds for appeal are strong and that the sanctions are not appropriate.

“The sanction as it pertains to the flying of the national flag has created unnecessary hysteria and punished athletes and players unfairly who are competing for the pride of South Africa.”

The minister added: “The filing of the appeal will stave off the consequences of the non-compliance as it applies to the flying of the South African flag at regional, continental and world championships and events, organised by major event organisations,

“This means that the flying of the South African flag at events such as the cricket and rugby World Cups will not be affected until CAS rules on this challenge.”

Sir Clive Woodward, the renowned coach of the England rugby team, shares his predictions for all four upcoming matches on Mail Online.

Woodward said: "Warren Gatland has done an amazing job to take Wales from where they were in the Six Nations to the quarter-finals. To top a pool at any World Cup is an impressive feat and Wales have done it with 19 points from a possible 20."

He added: "he Pumas hadn’t been at their best in France and although they were much more like themselves against Japan yesterday, Wales won’t be afraid."

Prediction: Wales win

He said: "Ireland are playing on a different level to every other team at this World Cup and the only side close to them is France.

"I can’t see New Zealand beating Ireland if Andy Farrell’s side reproduce the sort of performance they delivered against Scotland. What a job Farrell has done. He is clearly a wonderful coach but has also put a great team around him in Paul O’Connell, Simon Easterby and Mike Catt."

Prediction: Ireland win

He wrote: "I think South Africa are a better team than when they won the last World Cup. They have an amazing side but face a big call at No 10 for the France game.

"If I was coaching the Springboks, I’d continue with Manie Libbok in place of Handre Pollard.

"Libbok kicked poorly against Ireland and had an off day but he has so much to offer in attack. In big World Cup knockout games, the sort of creativity he brings can make a big difference but it still might not be enough to down France."

Prediction:France win

Woodward said: "England have to tighten up defensively. They looked so vulnerable against Samoa and ran out of numbers very quickly. With a bit more luck, Samoa could have scored three further tries.

"I’ve constantly talked about England playing with pace but that doesn’t just apply to attack. It’s defence, too. With a neutral hat on, I hope Fiji don’t get too tactical and try to mirror England’s kicking game. If they run the ball, they’ll cause problems."

Prediction: England win