South Africa head coach Heyneke Meyer has defended his decision to select players who have not been given much game time ahead of the World Cup.

Despite not featuring for the Springboks in 2015, Duane Vermeulen and Fourie du Preez were both included in the squad for the tournament, and Meyer believes that the veterans are key to his side's hopes of triumphing.

"I know I've received a lot of criticism with certain guys who haven't played for a long time, but I always believe the guys who can handle and perform under pressure are the guys that can win World Cups," he told reporters.

"I truly believe these guys are warriors, a lot of them haven't played but I know once they put on that jersey, they will almost die on the field for South Africa.

"We've got a lot of faith and trust in these 31 guys. I know they can win it for South Africa."

South Africa start their campaign against Pool B rivals Japan next Saturday.