SA rugby inspiration to the world: IRB chair

SA Rugby has grown in leaps and bounds

International Rugby Board (IRB) chairperson Bernard Lapasset says South African rugby needs to remain strong for the benefit of the game not only in Africa, but worldwide.

Lapasset, who recently took over from Syd Millar, is in Cape Town on his first official visit as chairperson of rugby's governing body.

Accompanied by IRB chief executive Mike Miller and South African Rugby Union officials, Lapasset visited a number of rugby projects in the Cape Peninsular, including a coaching clinic in Khayelitsha.

"We need to run rugby in all parts of the world and all populations inside unions. It's very important that rugby is not just a game -- it's also a way of life. It's a manner to run the education of the young people (sic)," says Lapasset.

Lapasset and Millar will meet the board of SA Rugby tomorrow to discuss the way ahead for both bodies.