Boks still in disarray as Jones arrives

It was hard not to spot the irony in England coach Eddie Jones’ whirlwind visit to the four South African Super Rugby franchises this week. While Jones, known for his meticulous planning, experienced first-hand knowledge of the facilities ahead of England’s three Test tour in June, SA are still in the dark as to who will coach the Springboks.

While all indications are that Allister Coetzee will remain at the helm despite another poor season, it has by no ways been confirmed with the result of his review process in December a well-kept secret.

But it has emerged that Coetzee didn’t have a performance clause in his contract as was widely thought, so the 65% winning target, which was dismally failed, came down to pure speculation.

There have even been suggestions that Coetzee will seek legal advice if he is shown the door as he has stated countless times that he has a four-year contract and will see it through to the World Cup tournament in Japan next year.

With numerous enquiries about the state of the Coetzee issue, Saru has stated that more information will only be revealed next Tuesday when their offices reopen after the festive break.

Next Wednesday, however, marks exactly one month before Super Rugby kicks off on February 17 and the state of local rugby affairs are being highlighted by the governing body’s silent treatment, while teams like England have already sent Jones on a fact-finding mission.

In this vein we will not only stay behind the leading countries worldwide but will fall even further back.

Fortunately Saru have made the big step forward by appointing Rassie Erasmus as director of rugby.

And while he is not expected to be involved with the national team full-time, his influence will be felt especially after it is understood that he will approve final team selections, which is already a step in the right direction.

He has already indicated what he is planning by bringing defence expert Jacques Nienaber and conditioning guru Aled Walters with him from Munster, which could indicate an overhaul in the Bok coaching structures.

It is also expected that scrum coach Pieter de Villiers and kicking coach Louis Koen could play a influential role after they were involved with Erasmus’ mobi-unit prior to his departure to Munster.

And Eddie did say the All Blacks are their most important game of the year. Think about that…