Political backing for the Springboks
July 19, 2001

South African Sports minister Ngconde Balfour has agreed to put aside his differences with Springbok coach Harry Viljoen and has given his full support for the side chosen to play against the All Blacks at Newlands on Saturday.

After increasing tension between the Springbok camp and the outspoken Balfour, the minister as well as his cabinet, have decided to bury the hatchet and give their full support to Viljoen and the Springbok side.

"The coach (Viljoen) had his say and it appears we are of the same mind when it comes to transformation. He explained that they (management) have had setbacks, but clearly indicated his support for transformation over time. For the moment I am happy with that," said Balfour after a meeting with Viljoen on Wednesday.

Balfour spoke out recently on a number of issues including the inclusion of Marius Joubert instead of Deon Kayser in the Test line-up.

He also criticized Cobus Visagie labeling the Stormers prop a "drug cheat" as well as lambasting the media for their misinterpretation of the transformation issue.

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