Waterston is in South Africa and reportedly communicated with the union's executive committee via e-mail on the selection of the players.

The biggest shock in the squad itself was the demotion of captain Corne Powell to vice-captain, with number eight Sean Furter taking over as the team's leader.

Conradie explained that the decision was taken by the executive committee in consultation with the coaching staff, after they felt that Furter would be in a better position to fulfil the role as he had represented the country at the last world cup.

"Furter at number eight will make a good captain as he has a link with the backline and the forwards, a position which also gives him a better view of the game," Conradie said.

He said Powell was demoted after an assessment was made of his relationship with his superiors on and off the field and the way he had led the team.

"But there is room for improvement for him," Conradie stated.

Asked about the team's morale following allegations that Waterston was out of touch, arrogant and favouring certain players, Conradie said the players would have to be satisfied with what was on offer.

"He has to coach the team and the players have to play even if they like it or not.

The issue is not relevant because it has been exhausted," Conradie said.

Asked if Waterston will stay on after world cup, Conradie admitted that the New Zealander had no contract with the union, but only "a gentleman's agreement".

He is expected to leave after the competition.

Conradie, however, said that a remuneration package still had to be negotiated with Waterston prior to him taking the team down under.

There was also good news for fly half Rudie van Vuuren who has been included in the squad, a move that will make him the first man to represent his country in two world cups in the same year.

He represented Namibia in cricket earlier this year.

He was also at the 1999 rugby world cup, but did not get to play.

The Namibian rugby squad for the 2003 Rugby World Cup

Backs:
Fullbacks: Lean van Dyk, Jurie Booysen Wings: Melrick Africa, Deon Mouton

Centres: Corne Powell, Du Preez Grobler, Regardt Kruger

Fly halves: Rudie van Vuuren, Morne Schreuder

Scrum halves: Ronaldo Pedro, Hakkies Husselman

Utility backs: Emile Wessels, Desmond Snyders, Niel Swanepoel

Forwards:
Tight head props: Neil du Toit (SWD), Johan Jenkins (Old Grays BFN)

Loose head props: Kees Lensing (EP), Jane du Toit (Griquas)

Hookers: Hugo Horn (Griquas), JM Meyer

Locks: Heino Senekal, Johannes Theron (Griquas), Eben Isaacs

Flankers: Wolfie Duvenhage, Schalk van der Merwe, Herman Lintvelt

Eighth man: Sean Furter, Jurgens van Lill (NTC WP)

Utility forwards: Archie Graham, Cor van Tonder

Players on standby: Andries Blaauw, Tommie Gouws, Shaun van Rooi, Tinus Venter, Gerald Loubser, Deon Grunschloss

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