Springbok captain Siya Kolisi says ITV’s use of in-play adverts throughout scrum resets within the Six Nations “is disrespecting the sport”.
The UK broadcaster launched the innovation throughout its protection of Thursday night time’s opening match between France and Eire.
Adverts appeared on a break up display screen whereas the dwell motion was muted.
ITV exhibiting break up display screen adverts throughout tonight’s Six Nations rugby recreation. pic.twitter.com/fDPAMMQMzj
— Jono Learn (@jonoread) February 5, 2026
Forward of the sport, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus posted on X: “O shit Daan, wat nou (what now)?”
When requested for his opinion by IOL Sport, Kolisi mentioned: “That’s disrespecting the sport. That’s actually dangerous.
“The build-up to scrums is a part of the sport, and I don’t know why folks would run away from it. We are saying rugby is a recreation for everybody, however are we now additionally going to cease and have advert breaks when Cheslin [Kolbe] is stepping folks?
“That isn’t truthful. We wish to watch the sport.”
South African rugby followers are used to in-game adverts run on the backside or to the facet of the display screen, however by no means with the sport sound muted.
SIYA: I’m able to battle for my Bok place
Following the Six Nations opener, followers took to social media in numbers to precise their frustration at what many described as an erosion of the game’s traditions.
“Placing adverts throughout scrum resets is without doubt one of the most disrespectful issues a broadcaster might do to a sport. Terrible, terrible alternative,” one X consumer wrote.
One other viewer drew comparisons to abroad protection, posting: “USA sports activities protection arrives within the UK. Terrible.”
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A extra measured response learn: “I’m sorry @ITV, I’m not fairly positive what I simply noticed there, nevertheless it appeared such as you had been making an attempt to play an advert facet by facet with a dwell sporting occasion. Please don’t ever do this once more.”
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