SARU EXPRESSES DISMAY AT NATIONAL ANTHEM IN FRANCE

South African Rugby Union (SARU) has written to the French Rugby Union (FFR) expressing South Africa's dismay at the performance of the national anthem before Friday night's Test match in Toulouse.

"As a union we were shocked and horrified by the rendition of the anthem and I contacted the French Federation on Saturday morning to express our very grave concerns," said Mr Oregan Hoskins, president of SARU.

"The performance of the anthem is a treasured part of any rugby international and we take great pains in this country in the selection and rehearsal of artists to ensure that we appropriately honour all anthems.

"Something went seriously awry in Toulouse and the upshot was that offence has been caused not just to the Springboks and SARU but to South Africans in general.

"I congratulate France on their victory in the Test match, but look forward to their response on this important issue."

Statement issued by SARU, November 16 2009

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