Jake White is set to step down as South Africa’s national rugby coach if the Springboks triumph in this Saturday’s World Cup final against England.
In an interview with the Star newspaper, White said the title of world champions had been his ultimate ambition ever since he took over three years ago and he was cool on the idea of being moved upstairs after the tournament.
”What can I say? When I took over as coach, I said that I really wanted to win the World Cup,” he said.
”That was part of my first speech to the guys in 2004 when I got the job. If this group wins, it is the most I can achieve.”
White’s contract is due to expire at the end of the year and SA Rugby has already advertised the position, which is something of a political hot potato in the post-apartheid era.
The 43-year-old had been expected to reapply for the position but his latest comments are his strongest indication he will turn his back on the Springboks.
Asked about the idea of taking up a new position of director of rugby, White said: ”I don’t think so. At this point I don’t even want to think about it.”
White was close to being sacked at the turn of the year after a dismal run of results but his stock has soared in recent weeks and he has been widely linked by newspapers with the post of Australian coach.
White has been a frequent target of sniping by provincial rugby administrators and has been come under fire from central government over the continued dearth of black players in the team. — Sapa-AFP