London, Dec 22 (IANS): British novelist J.K. Rowling has defended the casting of a black Hermione Granger in upcoming play "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child", following a backlash.

Some "Harry Potter" fans are said to have a problem with Hermione's "changing race" as Swaziland-born actress Noma Dumezweni is tapped to portray the character previously played on screen by Emma Watson, reports aceshowbiz.com.

The race of Hermione was never described in the "Harry Potter" books despite covers of the novels have shown the character as white.

Rowling often described Hermione had "bushy" hair. The author replied to a fan's question about black Hermione on early Monday.

"@goldregulus like. especially rowling. how does she feel about black hermione. I need to know," a Twitter user named "ayan" wrote.

Rowling then responded: "Canon: brown eyes, frizzy hair and very clever. White skin was never specified. Rowling loves black Hermione."

"Harry Potter" actress Evanna Lynch, who played Luna Lovegood, also showed her support for the casting announcement.

"Omg, a brand new trio! How strange and exciting! #TheCursedChild. Tbh new Hermione is black, Harry looks like Ron, when I was cast, people complained about my hair and it is people's (heart) not their looks that matter."