SA Rugby has confirmed that the new Bok coach, widely expected to be Jacques Nienaber, will be officially announced at 2pm on Friday in Pretoria.

Nienaber is set to replace Rassie Erasmus, who has stepped back from his head coach position after leading the Boks to the World Cup title last November. However, he is still expected to have a hands-on role with the national side.

Recently, Erasmus sung the praises of his right-hand man.

‘His [Nienaber’s] passion, knowledge and work ethic around defence were evident from the start. Jacques deals brilliantly with people, getting messages across clearly.

‘He is a wonderful person and, if chosen, would be a great replacement. From physiotherapist to Springbok head coach – what a story.’

Nienaber: No egos between Rassie and I

Along with the appointment of Nienaber, it’s expected that Deon Davids will be confirmed as a new member of the Bok coaching staff, while Daan Human has already been announced as the incoming forwards coach to replace Matt Proudfoot.

Mzwandile Stick and Felix Jones, who were part of the Boks’ World Cup-winning coaching staff, are expected to remain part of the team’s set-up.

Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Hollywoodbets