Hoskins vs Stofile on Quotas

Another row has erupted between Oregan Hoskins and Mike Stofile – this time over the issue of quotas in South African rugby.

Hoskins stated in an interview with the Independent Newspaper Group that the Springbok side to contest the Rugby World Cup in 2011 will have a target of seven or eight black players in the starting XV. Stofile hit back saying that seven or eight black players would be too few.

“We, as the game’s leadership, must take charge of transformation issues,” said Hoskins.

“There can be no turning back on our commitment to change. We are not forcing the national coach to pick seven or eight black players in 2008. It is a target we believe can be achieved by the next World Cup when we can confidently say the Springboks represent everyone in South Africa, and that every player in the starting XV is there on merit.

“It is our view that if black players are given the necessary opportunities in the Currie Cup and Super 14, there is no reason the national coach and his selectors won’t be able to meet this target.

“We as an administration don’t differentiate between ethnic black and coloured, although I made it clear it is unacceptable that some unions don’t invest in ethnic black players.”

“Transformation from now on is at the top of the Presidents Council’s agenda. Previously it has been at the bottom. When we get it right domestically the national team selections will reflect South African society.”

A confused Stofile, speaking to the Cape Times, denied all knowledge of Hoskins’ ideas on transformation.

“I don’t know where Oregan comes up with these figures, as it was not discussed.

“We decided at the meeting to get together in September to sort out a plan of action to transform rugby in this country. But having said that, I don’t believe seven is enough. I agree with Oregan when he said that there will be plenty of players of colour in the Currie Cup and Super 14. So if that is the case, then how can seven be enough?

“I don’t want to give a figure, but I don’t agree that there should be seven black players in the team. We cannot say only seven. And I also think that black should not include coloureds. That would minimise the players of colour’s chances of making the team.

“We must be honest with ourselves and realise that there are many different communities out there who play rugby – black, white, coloured, Indian and so forth. If those communities are not represented, then how can we then say that we have transformed rugby?

“We do have systems in place, but they are not being implemented by the unions… If we have to change the Saru constitution to make them do it, then so be it,” said Stofile.

In related news, Afrikaans newspaper Rapport claims to be in possession of a document in which it is proposed that there must be a “quota” of at least six black players in every senior national rugby team in 2008.

Additionally, at least four non-white players have to be on the playing field at all times, while non-white players who have played more than three Tests no longer qualify for these quotas and are effectively classified as white.

This would mean that there will be as many as 12 players of colour in the Springbok 22-man squad at any one time.