Row over racial quotas divides Springboks ahead of World Cup campaign
A common complaint against South African coach Heyneke Meyer claims he chooses whites in positions they do not usually play rather than pick specialist black players
The racial composition of the Springboks was a heated issue among South Africans before the squad announcement.
After giving blacks limited opportunities during recent defeats by Australia and New Zealand, coach Heyneke Meyer stirred a storm of protest by picking 13 white starters against Argentina in another warm-up match.
National trade union body Cosatu claimed five unnamed black Springboks had complained to the organisation of racial discrimination.
Meyer issued a denial, saying "I do not look at colour - I look at the best players. I have a great relationship with my players."
I do not look at colour – I look at the best players. I have a great relationship with my players
A little-known political group went to court this month, wanting the Springboks to surrender their passports, which would prevent them competing at the World Cup. The case was dropped, but the judge criticised the tortoise-like pace of rugby racial reform and committed the court to probe the matter further, saying it was an issue of "national interest".