Coach Peter de Villiers and his selectors appear to have got the balance mostly right, according to some critics. But, on a transformation level, they have increased black-player representation by only one from 2007. Eight black players in 30 is still a small percentage considering the promises made by SA Rugby on development. At least there are no token selections among the chosen group.

Nevertheless, Oregan Hoskins, the president of SA Rugby, proclaimed himself well satisfied with the selection, saying the 30 were "the best players we can send".

That, of course, is debatable - as Springbok selections always are in this country.

De Villiers has chosen to stay loyal to the core of "Jake White's team" that won the trophy in 2007.

This is in contrast to the coach's intentions when he took over the job. De Villiers at first showed intentions of introducing a new generation. He was quickly disabused of that notion, whether by pressure on him from the older players or a lack of courage to strike out in a bold new direction. Whatever, he has failed to introduce more younger players.

As much as we hope our players do well in New Zealand, we fear that some of them are too long in the tooth.

No team has successfully defended a Rugby World Cup. Australia thought they could do it in 1995, but found that the players who had won it for them in 1991 were no match for the younger, fitter breed four years later. The Springboks may be in similar danger this time.

If that should happen, we should not be filled with dread. South African rugby is flourishing and already a number of brilliant talents are emerging who will stands us in good stead when Rugby World Cup 2016 comes round.