What former Springboks think

Chester Williams, 27 Springbok tests, 1995 World Cup winner:

“It is a concern when you have a Springbok team playing against Argentina with two black players starting, 21 years after democracy. That we are still talking about it means there is a slow pace when it comes to transformation. I’m also a believer that transformation must be enforced, otherwise it just won’t happen.”

Lawrence Sephaka, 24 Springbok tests, 2002 SA Player of the Year nominee:

“It’s a very contentious issue but we need it to happen. The question is the when, how and how long? I’m sure policies have been put out there as to what should happen. Black players don’t want to be singled out either but we want to see change.

“Don’t wait for a major event to happen before speaking about transformation. Why not push the agenda the whole year?”

Naka Drotské, 1995 World Cup winner, former Cheetahs coach who gave Trevor Nyakane, Teboho Mohoje, Raymond Rhule Super Rugby debuts:

“At the Cheetahs we always said we don’t see the difference between black and white players. We were fortunate to have such talented black players coming through our system.

“There are more than enough black players coming through at young levels, if you look at our under-19 and under21 teams. There’s a lot of talent and some very talented young black players coming through. It is just a matter of time for more players to develop and play in Super Rugby. I’m positive that in future many more black players will be coming through to the Springboks.”

Gcobani Bobo, six Springbok tests, 2001 SA Young Player of the Year nominee:

“I don’t wanna participate in such debates because all I hear is guys talking about it. Who is trying to sort it out? That’s how I feel. The ones talking about it, what have they done? I’d rather work than have a chat.”—