Discussions about race and representation in South African rugby always seem to resurface, and this time podcaster Penuel Mlotshwa has found himself at the center of the storm.
His outspoken views on the Springboks’ player selection have led to him being targeted with racial slurs, including the K-word, after he questioned why more black players were not given spots in the national squad.
Penuel’s Painful Experience After Speaking Out
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Penuel revealed that he would no longer support the Springboks as a brand.
While he made it clear that he still respects coach Rassie Erasmus and the individual players, he expressed disappointment in what he described as a lack of genuine transformation.
According to him, raising these concerns immediately drew a flood of racist insults, with people telling him black players didn’t belong in rugby.
Why He Felt Let Down by the Team
In his own words, Penuel explained that it hurt to see deserving players sidelined.
For him, the issue was never about attacking the team but rather about asking fair questions: why are certain talented black players not being given opportunities on merit?
Instead of sparking open conversation, his comments triggered backlash that reinforced his belief that rugby in South Africa still has uncomfortable racial undertones.
Still Backing the Players, but Not the Brand
Despite the hostility, Penuel clarified that he continues to support the players themselves—just not the Springboks as a brand.
He argued that the “Springbok image” feels tainted when conversations about quotas and fair selection are silenced.
Drawing comparisons, he even mentioned how many fans historically backed the All Blacks instead, seeing them as more inclusive.
His Concerns About Squad Selection
Last week, Penuel raised suspicions over whether injuries were being used as a cover-up for questionable selection decisions.
He claimed he doubted whether Willie le Roux was truly injured, suggesting that Aphelele Fassi may have only been called up to reduce criticism about the lack of black representation.
His pointed question: are South Africa’s best black players being deliberately left out of the squad?
The Players He Believes Deserve a Place
Penuel, who once played schoolboy rugby, didn’t stop there.
He named several talented black players he believes should have made the cut, including Sanele Nohamba, Hacjivah Dayimani, Ntuthuko Mchunu, Phepsi Buthelezi, Celimpilo Gumede, Jurenzo Julius, Lukhanyo Am, and Makazole Mapimpi.
In his view, overlooking such talent raises questions about how transformation is really being handled.
A Balanced View on Rassie Erasmus
Interestingly, Penuel also defended coach Rassie Erasmus.
He praised him as one of the most fair and transformation-minded coaches South Africa has had in recent years.
However, he admitted that the coach’s most recent squads have raised doubts, leaving him torn between admiration and concern.
The Bigger Question for Fans
The heart of Penuel’s argument is not just about him but about the broader picture of South African rugby.
Can the Springboks truly claim to represent the nation if questions about fairness and inclusivity keep surfacing? And can fans freely express their concerns without being met with racist backlash?
