South Africa is compelled to send a second-string squad to New Zealand for two Tests next month, and coach Shukri Conrad on Thursday defended the controversial decision, stating that criticism of the move is unfounded and unfair. Former Australia captain Steve Waugh suggested that New Zealand should consider refusing to play the series after South Africa named seven uncapped players in a 14-man squad for the matches starting on February 4. Several other commentators also criticised the move, expressing concerns about the quality and competitiveness of the series due to the inclusion of numerous inexperienced players.
