Kings coach headlines Bulls shortlist
NEWS: The Blue Bulls Company, after months of speculation, has finally revealed an official shortlist for Super Rugby coach.
The Bulls coaching job was vacated when John Mitchell moved north to become the England defence coach back in September.
Following the 94th annual board meeting of Blue Bulls Company, and after weeks of speculation in the media, the BBCo announced that they have reached a decision on a short list of candidates for the much-talked-about the position of Super Rugby head coach.
This follows weeks of consultation led by a recommendation panel – headed by Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus – that acted in an advisory role to the board.
The board was ultimately responsible for narrowing down the shortlist after a thorough and well-researched process, and will also be responsible for the final appointment.
The shortlist comprises of (arranged alphabetically):
* DEON DAVIDS (South Kings coach)
* POTE HUMAN (2018 Super Rugby forwards coach and Currie Cup coach)
* VICTOR MATFIELD (Former Bulls captain and Springbok lock)
The final round of interviews will be held in the next few weeks, with details regarding the appointment being made shortly thereafter.
In respect of the process and those involved, the BBCo will make no further comments until that point.
* SOUTHERN KINGS STATEMENT ON COACH DEON DAVIDS
The Southern Kings would like to confirm that a process of engagement between the Blue Bulls Company and Southern Kings coach Deon Davids, for the vacant position of coach of the Bulls, has taken place.
While the Southern Kings has learnt via media reports that Davids has been shortlisted for the position, there has been no official communication to the franchise to this effect.
He remains the coach of the side and is taking charge of the team in their preparations for the upcoming Pro14 match against Irish province, Connacht, on Sunday, November 25.
Davids remains contracted to the Southern Kings until the end of June 2020 and has stressed his commitment to the franchise even through the ongoing process of engagement with the Blue Bulls Company.
Should the Blue Bulls Company wish to make a formal offer for the services of the coach, such a proposition will need to be presented to the Southern Kings board for consideration before any decision is made.
“There has not been a formal offer that has been brought forward. Any such offer will have to be presented to the Southern Kings board for their consideration. Deon Davids remains contracted with the Southern Kings until 30 June 2020,” Southern Kings COO Charl Crous said.”
The Southern Kings will not make further comment on the matter until any further communication between the parties is received and formal discussions take place.
