World Champions South Africa have refuted claims that they may rest players during this November’s tour of the UK.
Peter de Villiers’ agent had stated that the Springbok head coach would be tempted to leave a number of key players at home in order to ensure they are at their freshest when the Lions come calling in nine months time.
However, acting managing director of SA Rugby Andy Marinos confirmed that de Villiers would be taking his strongest possible squad to the UK next month.
"One of Peter’s personal managers made some casual remarks to a reporter about Peter perhaps resting players for the end of year tour,” said Marinos, a former centre and crowd favourite with Welsh side Newport.
“But we have agreed that, following a final selection meeting, having viewed the Absa Currie Cup comprehensively, the strongest possible team will be considered for the tour.
"We met the leading provinces at the conclusion of the Tri-Nations and discussed managing the players’ workloads.
"But any suggestions attributed to the national coach that we will be resting players are absolutely incorrect."
The Springbok selectors will meet in the week of the Currie Cup final to discuss their choice and the squad will be named on the evening of October 25, following the final.
The Boks face Wales on November 8, Scotland on November 15 and England on November 22, before welcoming the Lions to South Africa in May 2009.
