Former Springbok and Bulls defence coach John McFarland said he felt sorry for axed Springbok backs coach Mzwandile Stick.
Stick was replaced by Cheetahs coach Franco Smith.
Stick has moved to the Under-20 team, where he will assist former technical analyst and defence coach Chean Roux.
The Times understands the SA Rugby Union did not notify Joey Mongalo, the national junior team's defence coach, of Stick's appointment on Monday.
Saru senior communications manager De Jongh Borchardt did not want to comment.
Said McFarland: "I feel sorry for Stick. A guy like him needs time so he can gain experience.
"I also feel for Joey Mongalo with the Under-20s because he was cast aside. You need to give guys like them time in the system.
"These guys want help and they must be given that help.
"They need to have somebody who is above the coaches to mentor the coaches.
"I know a lot of other countries have that but the job of that person is to go to young coaches and ask them what they need and what kind of help they need.
"They need to be able to guide and give positive feedback without being connected to anybody."
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