Few have made up their minds as to whether the `Transformation Policy' is working with the South African rugby team. With eight black players in the squad, SARFU, on the surface, seem to have taken up the issue of racism in the sport with some degree of seriousness. Accepting Andre Markgraaf back in as forwards coach a few years after he was taped making racist remarks is the other, less palatable side of a difficult process.

However, what has been commented on by various South African observers is the surfeit of black wingers in the game and the lack of tight forwards. This is explained quite simply. The athletic talents of many black players make them exceptional wingers, but because of diet requirements and the specific training regimes that are vital to the development of front row players, black players can't compete as they are less privileged and are disadvantaged socially and economically.