Coetzee leaves Springboks

Allister Coetzee has left his position as coach of South Africa.

Coetzee took up the role in April 2016 but the Springboks were beaten by Ireland on home soil in his first game in charge while landmark losses to Argentina and Italy have also occurred during his tenure.

South Africa Rugby aims to have his successor in place before the end of this month.

The Springboks said in a statement: “SA Rugby had reached an agreement with Allister Coetzee to part ways with immediate effect. The Rugby Department of SA Rugby will manage the responsibilities of the Bok coach until the coaching and management group for 2018 is confirmed later this month.”

Coetzee said: “I have always held Springbok rugby dear and, for that reason, now is the time the team and me strike out in new directions.”