Norman Arendse is the president of Cricket South Africa

President Norman Arendse and chief executive Gerald Majola have issued a joint statement explaining themselves.

Arendse initially declined to approve a squad with only four black players.

"We issue our sincerest apology to the entire nation for the manner in which the matter has been handled. We accept responsibility," said the statement.

CSA policy states that six black players should be included in a 14-man squad. The squad was eventually released without Arendse's approval.

606: DEBATE It is sad to see South African cricket getting embroiled in a needless selection row cricketlogic

Robin Peterson's late inclusion in place of injured fellow spinner Paul Harris lifted the number of black players in the tour squad to five, after only four had initially been named.

The issue caused friction between Arendse and coach Mickey Arthur, who wanted a full-strength side to acclimatise to sub-continental conditions in preparation for South Africa's three-Test tour to India in March.

But Arendse wanted to see less experienced players involved in the two Tests and three one-day internationals against lowly Bangladesh.

While contrite in tone, Friday's statement maintained CSA was still committed to its transformation policy "aimed at ensuring that the imbalances of the past are redressed as soon as possible".