The South African Rugby Union has appointed an attorney to examine allegations of attempts to fix the result of matches in Boland club rugby.

The investigator’s role will be to inquire into claims that attempts were made to influence the outcome of club league matches as well as any other matters that may arise out of the investigation.

'Allegations that the results of matches may have been fixed – or that an attempt was made to rig results – are very serious indeed, no matter at what level of the game,' said Saru president Oregan Hoskins. 'Rugby is built on the ethos of a fair contest and it is repugnant to our game to think that might not be the case. Allegations have been sent to us relating to this offence and we have now appointed an independent attorney to look into them.'

Hoskins said that no charges had been brought against any individuals.

'The investigating officer’s role in the first instance will be to determine the merits of the evidence and present that to the CEO for possible action. At this stage it is difficult to say how long the investigation is likely to take but these are serious charges and they urgently need resolving.'

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