Langeveldt was part of last month's tour to Bangladesh

South Africa bowler Charl Langeveldt has withdrawn from next month's Test series in India after his selection caused controversy.

The 14-man squad featured six non-white players, including Langeveldt, while Andre Nel, who is white, was omitted.

Nel reacted angrily and threatened to quit international cricket.

And on Wednesday the South Africa players' union said: "South Africa could be in the process of losing two of its best cricketers."

606: DEBATE Colour should not determine team selection. The ICC should not stand for it. Make a stand. _Ricardinho_

Langeveldt, 33, had been "in an emotional state" when asking to pull out of the tour, said Cricket South Africa chief executive Gerald Majola.

"He wants to consider his international future in the right frame of mind and said the public controversy over the selection of the team to tour India had upset him," added Majola.

He had failed to convince Langeveldt of his worth to South African cricket.

"I have assured Charl he is very much in the Proteas's plans and is regarded as one of our best fast bowlers in one-day international and Test cricket," said Majola.

"We will have in-depth discussions with him and hopefully he will continue to be available for international selection."

I have always fought for a place in the team but I don't want to be put there because of my colour Charl Langeveldt

Tony Irish, chief executive of the South African Cricketers' Association, said: "The players believe in the goals of transformation.

"But all of them, black and white, are adamant that this should not be achieved by interfering in the selection of the national team."

Langeveldt said: "I have always fought for a place in the team but I don't want to be put there because of my colour."

And Nel commented: "I'm as upset for Langes as I am for myself. We are both passionate about playing for South Africa and neither of us deserves to feel like this."