For four years, Jake White has endured criticism from various sources. Politicians, selectors, past players, the media and the public have all had their say.

For four years, Jake White has endured criticism from various sources. Politicians, selectors, past players, the media and the public have all had their say.

Now that the Springboks have started their Rugby World Cup campaign with a fine display against England, critics seem to have been reduced if not silenced.

The wisdom of identifying talent, mixing experience and youth, trying out combinations and resting senior players is evident in his final squad selections.

It is a great pity that Pierre Spies and Jean de Villiers have been ruled out through health and injury.

But there are capable replacements.

May the Boks go all the way to the final and bring the trophy back home! May White's thorough planning, preparation, analysis of opposing teams and the use of other coaches such as Eddie Jones be rewarded.

David Quail, Johannesburg