Relations between Springbok rugby coach Jake White and the South African Rugby Union (Saru) had worsened over issues of team selection and transformation, Business Day reported on Wednesday.
It emerged on Monday that White had sent a letter to the Saru, asking it to clarify its transformation objectives. He reportedly also said Saru should take responsibility for team selection.
Union president Oregan Hoskins confirmed on Monday that a letter had been received from White ”relating to transformation”, but declined to give details.
”I am aware that Jake sent a letter to [Saru CEO] Johan Prinsloo,” Hoskins told the paper.
”I want to stress that it is in the interests of South African rugby for me not to comment on this matter on the eve of such an important match.”
The Springboks play Australia on Saturday.
The South African Broadcasting Corporation reported that White wanted Saru to issue a statement to confirm directives on team selection given to him during a recent discussion about his career.
It appeared one of the directives was that White should select more ”ethnic black players”.
National selection convenor Peter Jooste denied two weeks ago that flank Solly Tyibilika was selected ahead of Western Province flank Luke Watson because he was black.
The Springboks, currently on tour in Australasia, lost their first two matches in the Tri-Nations series against Australia and New Zealand. – Sapa