Bok Legend Duane Vermeulen awaits SARU decision on coaching future

By SABC Sport
3rd February 2024

Recently retired Springbok loose forward Duane Vermeulen is awaiting a final decision from the South African Rugby Union as he looks set to take his first steps into coaching.

The two-time World Cup winner was tipped for a move into the coaches' box even before his official retirement and is set to do so in the coming weeks.

The former number eight reportedly turned down an offer from the Bulls last year as he preferred to stay in Cape Town, with recent reports linking him with a role in the Western Province (WP) and Stormers set-up.

Western Province head of rugby, Dave Wessels, confirmed as much to the respected South African newspaper Rapport.

Vermeulen's agent has since confirmed that the former Bok has had a 'constructive meeting' with WP Rugby, but his official appointment has been put on hold as he could still join Rassie Erasmus' Springboks coaching staff.

"The agreement will still exist to try to create an outcome where Duane becomes involved in the Stormers' coaching system," Swart told Netwerk24.

"However, all parties agree that it must first be ascertained whether SARU wants Duane involved with the Springboks' new coaching structures.

"As soon as there is a certainty, a decision will be made about the way forward."

Vermeulen fuelled more speculation this week when he visited the Bulls' training facilities with the side's social media account sharing pictures of the double World Cup winner.

However, the Bulls confirmed that he was just catching up with some of his friends at the club that he represented between 2019 and 2021.

Vermeulen is widely respected for his knowledge and tactical acumen and has been tipped for a bright future as a coach following his stellar career.

Despite not holding a coaching position before, he has been linked to filling Jacques Nienaber's role in leading the Springboks' defence.

Recent reports in South Africa have linked former Ireland hooker and current Harlequins assistant Jerry Flannery with the role. Flannery worked under Erasmus and Nienaber during the pair's stint in Ireland with Munster.

The Irishman is set to be joined by former All Black Tony Brown as the Boks' new attack coach after Felix Jones left to join Steve Borthwick's England coaching team.

Rapport initially reported that the Springboks would unveil their new coaching staff this week. However, it has been pushed back after Erasmus was hospitalised after sustaining burns while attempting to unblock a drain pipe.